Portland, Tennessee Blog

He shouldn't have to live here. I thought it was wrong and ridiculous that the subject was even brought up since there was no policy about residency and none of the other city employees are required to live in the city.

If Luther wanted to bring the subject of residency up, he should have thought of that at the time when the vacacancy was first created,and in the months previous when a Director was being sought,and made that a motion to be considered at a Council meeting BEFORE a candidate had been selected under the existing rules. His timing was just very bad.

Anyway, it's over now...and hopefully, the Council will have learned to do things in a proper manner to avoid these kind of situations.

Why should he have to live here? Does living in another town make him incompetent to do the job hired? Maybe this Hendersonville native was hired, because he had the most to offer our city. Man it is Discrimination not to hire someone because of something like that. I dont care what policy or laws you try to put into place to make it fit the desires of the city. All this time wasted on this, so many bad decisions once again by our city. I can't believe we elected them to be this incompetent. Perhaps we should hire an outside agency to come in and fire the lot.

Was he hired with no strings attached ?
(does he have to move here ? )

Mr. Osborne is now the city's new park director and we look forward to good things at the parks dept.

How did the meeting go last night?

PK....that's exactly what it looked like....the "deer in the headlights"......

Well Said.

Maybe the counsel should spend a ton of money to hire an outside study group to make yet another decision for them.

I don't agree with Bratton but at least he spoke his mind as did Meadows. Both men have shown conviction and concern for the city and it's well being in this sad but typical debate. Bratton stated he was just one vote and even gave it before he had to. All you other city leaders had to do was vote your mind and address the city residency policy or the lack of one at a later, proper, time.

Why did every other counsel member look like a deer in the headlights? Vote the way you feel, the way the people feel, not the way the man or woman next to you voted. There were some members that were lost.

If you counsel people dont get with it this city is doomed!

thanks,
puking and laughing
(PK for short)

He stated his position and his reasons at the meeting. I thought he made it very clear. Why call him ? Will he tell me something else ??

My point is.....during the months that there has been no Parks Director, those things should have been discussed before and if a policy change was thought to be necessary, it should have been made at that time, not wait till you hire someone to bring up the issue.

Anyone that has ever watched many of the council meetings or have ever come to the numerous committe meetings, know that Alderman Bratton and myself probably go at each other on a far greater scale than the rest of the council combined. Many times we are on opposite ends of an item and several times it has become heated.
I know Alderman Bratton gets a bad rap a lot of times, but when you serve as long as he has you will always have those who dislike you.
As far as I know, Alderman Bratton has always treated me fairly and I have respect for his willingness to say and do things that may not be popular when he believes strongly in them.
While I do not always agree with him, I do try to listen to what he has to say because he is very experienced.
I said all that to say this, if you have suspicions concerning his motives in this park director matter, I encourage you to call him; he will take the time to tell you his position.
I think all will be well on Nov. 15th; but of course I thought the same last week.......

Adlerman Callis said: "But the day of the meeting he was notified that at least 1 alderman had some concerns about his residence and about his ability to be active in the community."

At that point, Mr. Osborne should have seen a big red flag flying in his face !

Mr. Osborne should have replied by saying that he was never told that residency was a requirement for the job and it was never mentioned to him in his interview process.

How does Mr. Bratton think the other dept. heads can be active in the community who don't live in the city ??? LOL LOL

Guess their jobs aren't as important ??? LOL

It all comes down to policy. If you have no policy about residency you can't enforce it.

If you want a residency requirement, then you're going to have to make a new policy.

But, to let a man go through the process up to the day of the meeting he is to be voted on, and spring this on him is wrong.

That he still wants to work in Portland tells me he has his reasons. That he does not mind these kind of bumps in the road tells me he really wants this job....LOL LOL

This is my last comment on this fiasco and I will sit back and wait till next election day.

As the world turns.................

OK, Mr. Osborne assures me he was not contacted on friday. But the day of the meeting he was notified that at least 1 alderman had some concerns about his residence and about his ability to be active in the community.

Also, Mr.Osborne says he is still eager to get to work at the city of Portland and understands there will always be bumps in the road (I like his attitude).

One thing is apparent, this situation has revealed peoples feelings about dept. heads being a part of our community, and it has shed light on possible policy changes.

Exactly, DA....that was what I meant when I put the " Hmmmmm" after my comment about the Leader's use of the word "innocently". I didn't see the need to add that word unless they were trying to convince us of something.....LOL.

It didn't work.

Looking forward to how they resolve this issue.

I would beg to differ with the reporter from the Leader; I truly doubt that Alderman Bratton's question was asked "innocently." My opinion is that he knew that he was injecting an element of doubt in the minds of the other Councilmen, and that was exactly what he intended. This technique is used fairly often by several of the Council members, and it is quite effective. At least it slows down the decision-making process and gives those of us on the blog something to talk about.

I do think that many of the Council members talk to each other before the meetings; just have lunch occasionally at someplace like Cracker Barrel and just look around at who else is there. Yeah, they talk to each other.

Well, that's very interesting. This thing just gets worse with the explaining. Now..it's like some of you all knew what was going on, and other's didn't....or that there was some secret thing going on..LOL
Sounds like y'all need to communicate with each other, so you'll all be on the same page when meeting time comes around and there be no surprises.

As The Leader explained it...."Luther Bratton innocently asked the question"...inferring it was a spur of the moment question. Hmmmm.

All it would have taken for all this confusion and aggravation to have been avoided would have been for ONE, just one, Councilperson to have said...." we have discussed with Mr. Osborne the possibility of him moving to Portland at some time in the future if he is hired"........but no one said that. His body language looked like he was hearing it for the first time...and it's gonna take a lot for anyone to believe otherwise.

When Mr. Bratton brought up the subject, it was like a shock to everyone....even the the attorney was not consulted first about it...he even commented on that.

It's time for the Mayor, & the Council to be a little more upfront and open with these things if they don't want the fallout that these kind of deals create. No one is fooled by it...and it is just is so unnecessary.

Now, wouldn't this have sounded better:

We have discussed this with Mr. Osborne that the Parks Director position is such that living closer to the city should be required...and we've given him the opportunity to think about it.." etc....

Sure wish whoever discussed it with him prior to the meeting could have just said that. Would have saved me a ton of typing about it...LOL LOL

Thanks for responding to my thoughts on all this...and I trust all this works out for the best and the Council will have learned a few things in the process.

OH....also...
I think that city employees should live in the city and pay city taxes, too......think they should be a part of the city and contribute to it.
Really, the people should be allowed to vote on this issue about residency.

I have since found out that "supposedly" he [Mr.Osborne], was contacted about this issue the Friday before the Monday night meeting and he knew it would be brought up.
I am not sure of all the particulars, but the way I now understand it, it was not a surprise to him and others; but it was a surprise to me.
Just remember everything is not always as it seems, even on TV....

If the city decides to adopt a new residence policy for dept. heads, it will not and cannot apply to those already hired; and according to what I have read it is up to us set what ever distance or area requirements we choose.
This is defintely a matter that will be discussed during our coming legislative meetings.

It may turn out to be "legal" , but it sure was very tacky to bring the residency issue up when it doesen't apply to anyone else here and was not an issue in his interview and wasn't told that it would be a problem before he was put on the spot about it and asked if he would move here.

I do think I remember hearing the City Attorney saying he would need some time to give an answer on this also. He said he would have liked to have been consulted prior to the meeting also.

I don't see how it's legal to ask a person to do something for which there is no rule yet and something they were not informed of during his interview. He had no clue that would be asked of him..and to ask him in a public meeting was not professional or respectful to him.

If I were Mr. Osborne, there is no way I'd take the job if offered to me now - after being done that way.

Alderman Callis#1 It is legal that question was answered by your city attorney monday night. #2 The city council can pass residency requirements they probably can not make them retroactive. All your questions have been previously answered by TML.

You know it's funny how all the Portland residents want the Director to be from Portland or live in Portland. But when it comes to the city buying new city trucks....where's the first place they go to do so?? Outside of Sumner County of course....That pisses me off!! Keep your business atleast in the county if at ALL possible!! Nuff said....let the fire come!!

This matter appears to be on the Nov. 15th meeting.
Since this came up, we should know 2 things:
1. Is it legal to require someone to live within the city limits or a certain area
2. Is it legal to impose this now when it was not done so during the interview process or made part of the job description

What I have heard so far is, that most people would be more comfortable with dept. heads living in the community; this is not the policy at the moment. But even some of those realize the job could be done well by commuting back and forth from Hendersonville or where ever.

Mr. Osborne interviewed the best and seems to have the most experience and education for this job and I told the Mayor he would be the one I would pick and we were ready to vote him in; but questions arose and plans changed. I feel confident this will be resolved in another week and through this hoefully we will learn something.

They say you learn the most through your mistakes, if that is the case I should know everything by now......;)

Anyone is welcome to contact me on this or any other matter.
Thank you,
Mike Callis

P.S.
For those so inclined, I would ask for your prayers for former Alderman Tim Coker and his wife as they just had their first baby. The child has been having some difficulty and they are at Vanderbilt hospital.

J.B.F,

that is exactly the same thing I was thinking. There are certainly a couple of suspicious post's and responses.

Mr. Callis,

While I understand what you are saying, I also understand that actions speak louder than words.

Its never to late to correct a mistake. When interviewing for the parks directors position Mr. Osborn was never told he would have to move into our city. If he is truly the best person for the job hire him and move on to other business. Then correct the mistake made. Support and pass the resolution now being offered by Vice mayor McDowell/ All future persons being considered to fill Dept. Head or Assistant Dept. Head possitions will be told in advance this is expected of them. And yes it is legal this opinion was given by our city attorney during the disscussion Monday night during the council meeting. Lets see which of our elected Officials are really listening and show up to vote on this very important issue. I would venture to say at least one Councilman will have some excuse to be out of Town.

DeeAnna I love you, the check is in the mail! :)

I just read The Progressive's article and Daniel's comments. His comments were right on target. All Council members should read what he wrote and learn from it. He made a lot of good points.

I think everybody should subscribe to the Progressive today!
(Is that what you meant J.B.F., lol)

What's funny, is that it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see who posts as two or three different names on here. What you do, is post an opinion, and then post a couple hours or so later as a different name supporting what you said a couple hours ago!!!...LOL

As I said, I was not concerned with his address, so when someone brought it up, it caught us by surprise.
If a councilman has a concern we should listen, no matter when the concern hits them.
I have since found out that this matter of residency has been discussed in the past; why it was not addresed or handled in the past I cannot say.
But as I stated, the first thing we should know is whether or not it is legal for us to even require it.
I was faced with it that night and had to react.
I am not trying to smooth anything, just trying to shed some light on what I did and how I percieved things to be.
The Mayor makes recomendations to hire but the council must approve. No matter how late in the game someone ask the question, it is still their right to ask it.

Alderman Callis, how do "things like this catch us by surprise" ???

Are there residency requirements or not ??

Or does the Council make up the rules as they go along ??

Doesn't seem fair at all to me.

Nothing can smooth this over in my mind. It was simply just a very unfair thing to do to this man, to suggest he do something that is not required of other city employees.

I think the willingness of some of our council members to post on here shows they have nothing to hide in their decision.

Jody, I agree with your proposal, but it may not be necessary to restrict residency to strictly "within City Limits". Residency within the general 37148 area would be fair to ask. I have lived in many other cities where dept heads, plus fire and police staff had to live within the area they served, this is not that uncommon.

I was one of 4 Alderman that sat in on the final round of candidate interviews for park director.
My focus during the interview was the current state of our parks and its future, not on the person’s address.
As dept. heads, it would be nice if they lived in the city, but the fact is many do not. I asked during the meeting if it was legal to require this; I have not yet been told one way or another, but I feel it is a question that “now” must be answered.
No matter what motives some think were involved, I simply gave Alderman Bratton the courtesy that has been given to others.
We had been discussing moving city hall for months, but when Alderwoman Mclerran said she needed more time, out of courtesy, Alderman Bratton along with others allowed a deferment.
Now for some they wanted more action, but when you are faced with huge responsibilities, you want to be sure before you vote; I can understand this.
Could everything have been handled better? Yes it could have, but to now cast blame is not helpful either.
I appreciate Jody’s enthusiasm about correcting a mistake he believes has happened; and once again we will see democracy in action on November 15th. No matter your view on this one, it is good to know we have freedom to vote the way we want to.
Now, I cannot read people’s minds; therefore I must take what they say at that moment as being honest until I find out otherwise. Things happen from time to time that catch us by surprise; I just pray that everyone involved has the city’s best interest at heart.
I have really enjoyed serving Portland and serving with my other council members; and I hope we will continue to do good things.

Thank You,
Alderman Mike Callis
mikecallis@cityofportlandtn.gov
www.cityofportlandtn.gov

Daniel,

I am not related to GW, at least not that I know of, not sure who it is.

Jody,

No we are not tired of you, You are the only voice on that city council that appears to be sane at this point. Again I implore you to please run for mayor, I will be the first to put the sign in my yard.

Well, Jody, sounds like a nice solid plan to me. I just hope it works....it also appears that much of the political left hand is not communicating with the political right hand when making decisions for the city. Or, maybe some of the city authorities think they are so good at what they do that they do not need to attend interviews, ask questions or do any type of research prior to attending voting sessions ... they assume that they are well equipped to "shoot from the hip" so to speak. Sounds to me like the whole city is just "whacked up" and voters need to step in and not only vote in changes, but also make it a point to have a voice in decisions being made. It is quite easy to go cast your vote and then assume your expectations of that person will be met. Not necessarily so...we have to stay on top of what we want for our community and take part in making sure it gets done.

Oh folks, I just keep posting on this, I'm probably getting on your nerves by now! :o)

Hopefully I can do my part to change this "rule" for future hires. I am going to introduce a resolution in the next council meeting that addresses "All future positions filled for DEPARTMENT HEADS and ASSISTANT DEPARTMENT HEADS, shall be required to live within the city limits of Portland, Tennessee within 12 months of employment, and shall maintain residency while their position is held"

This doesn't mean that we won't hire from outside of this city, but that whoever the qualified applicant may be, understands in advance that residency WILL be required!

There is also nothing, in my opinion, that we can do to enforce this on persons currently employed. It will have to be effective for any future hire.

any comments?

Seems like there are plenty of facts, let's review: Fact 1-There is no city law requiring a dept. head to live in the city limits-Fact 2-each council member had at least three months to voice concerns on regulations for hiring a parks director before Monday night-Fact 3-Apparently several of our council members didn't bother attending any of those interviews because they didn't even know who the mayor and committee had suggested for such "an important position to Portland". Fact 4-At no point was moving to Portland mentioned to Steve Osborne before Monday night
Personally, I don't think this decision has very much to do with "good ole boy politics" as much as it does being unprepared and going about things the wrong way. I think that a parks director should live in Portland, but I think it should be that way for all dept. heads, not just certain ones, especially not when the stipulation is thrown in at the 11th hour. It makes the city look to be unfair in the hiring practices which down the line, could lead to a lawsuit and it won't be the council members paying for it, it will be the taxpayers. The reason this seems politically driven to the people is the fault of the council. When you have three months to provide this regulation and you don't, plus the fact you have served for several years and never once tried to change the legislation, but suddenly on the night a hire is to be made you cry foul, it seems politically motivated. Either that or it seems you have been lazy and not done what you were elected to do, i.e.-take an active part in the hiring of dept. heads who play such a crucial role within the city.

Daniel -- I have not had the pleasure of meeting JW; but if I were related to JW, I would not be a "brother." hee! hee!
I'm sure the members of Portland's city government are trying to do the best they can; it just doesn't seem to work out too well most of the time...anyway, I still think the best way to make changes is to attend meetings and vote!!!
As for the blog....it's my interpretation that a blog is a blog...I don't expect the world to right itself simply because I and others voice our opinion (primarily venting) on a blog site...I gather valued opinions and insight from others here and if some are negative, then that is the way they feel and it certainly is not my place to complain about it...If I don't like what others have to say (except vulgarity, etc.) then I simply don't have to come here to the site!

yeah slander, boy did someone tick you off!
as I said in my post, no one has to name names, or even give details. These folks are smart enough to see it unfold on their own! As you say, a question was asked, and time requested, and yes out of courtesy, we agreed to the deferment, but after realizing that this was ridiculous, we decided to give it a quicker look. We need to either tell this guy yes or no and let him get on with his life one way or another. His decision to move here or not isn't going to be any different 3 weeks later! We're just cheating ourselves out of a park director while we wait!

MOnday night was a disgrace. If the job requirement did not require residency in Portland, then why was it even brought up. Mr Osbourne is obviously qualified and wants to work for our town. Yes he is a dept head, but if things need tending to after hours, it will not be him to do it. He has on-call people to do that. Either the Progressive or Leader quoted one of the alderman saying Mr Osbourne would be needed to turn off lights and lock/unlock gates. I'm sorry, Mr Osbourne is responsible for managing his dept,not doing all the work. Might as well fire everyone else in parks and let him do it all then. This is why this town never goes anywhere. Jody talks about the good ole boy system, but look at almost everyone on the council and mayor.....born and raised in Portland thinking they know how everything is to be and never looking at other cities and capitalizing on their idea. Sometimes we need people from outside with better views of things around us. It seems like outside ideas are no good around here. Almost everyone that runs this city seems narrow minded and not willing to expand their minds. Look at all the other towns around us that are growing by leaps and bounds. And little ole Portland still sitting in its bubble, not wanting to better themselves except with industries that get tax breaks like no other. How many people know that the Public Safety Director Al West is building a new house in Orlinda(he may already be living there)? From my understanding, it is almost to the 4way stop in Orlinda. How many know the Asst Police Chief, Richard Smith, lives in Westmoreland. Crystal stated it would take to long for Mr Osbourne to come from Hendersonville, but what about any Emergency Service personnel of this town, not even living in or near the city. I think the city council and mayor need to sit back and look at the problem they have caused. You can't require someone to live in or near the city, if it was never in the job description. Even later, if the city made it a requirement, after hiring someone, you still cant force them to move.

Slander,

Oh and yes, your post is so filled with positives! Practice what you preach.

Oh, by the way....which council member are you?

meowwwww.........someones toes got stepped on!!!

If someone has info that something underhanded or illegal happened, please give that info; if not, please be silent.
things said on this blog are bordering on slander.
this blog smells blood in the water and goes headhunting with no facts.
a questioned was asked, it was explored. time was asked for and it was given. period.
these guys have full time lives and try to serve the best they can. making descions on the spot is difficult and sometimes it doesnt work out; has anybody on this blog ever made a bad desicion?
this "good ole boy" crap is an easy way for someone to claim they have been victimized.
not one word has been said about the rest of the meeting and some of the things that were positive; not one!
more comments on this thread have been made then on our children coming down with staph infection!!!!!!!!!!
wait till someone puts your life in the spotlight; you would not be so eager.
if you have proof show it or just keep quiet.
there is nothing positive on this blog and it is apparent that many just like complaining.
way to lead by example!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JW, you never introduced me to your brother, GW, what's up with that :)? Seriously, when you have less than 30 percent of voters taking part in an election, this is what happens. It's a vicious cycle, people don't vote, then they get made at the council, then they decide not to vote again if that's what they have to choose from. I think we do have some good council members but I think a few are members in name only and don't come prepared.
Look how long it took to reach a decision on city hall. Months of having the mayor run in circles just to put it off even longer. I understand people live busy lives, but when these candidates ran for council, how many of them said we will put forth the time neccessary unless we are tired, have another appointment or feel like spending more time with our families?

I'm with JW; if Portland wants to see growth, change and community input -- it has to start in the political arena -- we have to use our "voting" power to make changes in city government. We have to "vote" in new people with new and progressive ideas. We also have to have "new candidates" to vote for. We need candidates with a solid knowledge base of how to actively involve the whole community in the decision making process; candidates with a sincere desire to include the citizens of our community and motivate them to be part of the process of improving our city. Now, the big question I ask is -- where do we find candidates like this???

(Quote) I think this whole fiasco is hilarious. We are the most a** backward, ignorantly-run community in all of Sumner County. We all know that the powers that be want to maintain their control over this good ole boy town here. Portland will continue to be a town where those that are in charge always stay in charge. It doesn't matter who you elect or put in office, this is just how things will always be. It's getting to the point to where there's really no reason to get on here and voice our concerns or opinions. (End Quote).

There is a way to escape the grip of this good ole boy network on this town.

STOP ELECTING THESE PEOPLE!

For everyone's information, several of us council members instructed the city recorder today to place this vote on the special called meeting for 11-15-07. We were advised that we have to overturn the deferment by 2/3 of the body (5 votes), and then we can vote (yes or no) to the hiring of Mr. Osborne.

Mr. Osborne talked to me today and let me know that he is still interested in the position, and I gave him a heart felt apology for the mess we had allowed to happen. I respect him for something he told me today, he said Portland doesn't have a monopoly on politics, that it happens everywhere. He understands that he will face hurdles in his tenure with the city, but he's willing to tackle them and give it his very best. I don't think we can ask for anything more!

I also want to personally apologize to ALL of y'all. This kind of governing is something I want to see stop!!! It has been really hard trying to bust up the "good ole boy network" which operates in this city. But thank God, we have some guys and gals who are trying to overcome this political monster. I don't have to tell you folks anything, y'all see it for yourselves.

I just hope everyone involved will respect us for the decision we're going to make.

There has never been a requirement for city employees to live in the city, or even have a reasonable response time. We have personnel who rotate being "on-call". Those employees are required to respond in a timely manner, but they're paid for their "on-call" status. Lots of cities require certain positions live in their community. If we want to do the same, we need to be fair and make several important positions follow the same rule. But as for now, we do not. So as far as I'm concerned, Mr. Osborne has my vote.

Several folks from Portland requested that I, and others, encourage the committee to consider a good friend of mine from Portland. He too is a very talented, qualified, and experienced young man. He made it to the final stages, but the committee, through a difficult process, made their decision to recommend Mr. Osborne. As sorry as I may be for my friend, I feel compassionate to support the committee's recommendation.

Once again, thanks to you all! This blog helped accomplish just exactly what it was meant to do! And it will hopefully help justice prevail this time!

Mack...well, that about sums it up.
Imagine bringing a guy to the Council to be voted on and not even knowing what the hiring rules are....lol.
You're right...it does no good to complain here.
It's just so frustrating to see how things operate around here and it feels good to vent about it. "They" could care less...but I would think they would get tired of looking so unprepared and unprofessional.

I think this whole fiasco is hilarious. We are the most a** backward, ignorantly-run community in all of Sumner County. We all know that the powers that be want to maintain their control over this good ole boy town here. Portland will continue to be a town where those that are in charge always stay in charge. It doesn't matter who you elect or put in office, this is just how things will always be. It's getting to the point to where there's really no reason to get on here and voice our concerns or opinions.

Ace - VERY well said, people here are AFRAID of change and think in one direction - BACKWARDS!

Jody, you can be "torn" on the issue all you want, but there should be definite rules on this issue. Do city employees have to live in the city or not ? If there is no rule, then this shouldn't be an issue. The Council should have made their guidelines before they had a man standing on tv and before the council waiting to be voted upon. If there is no rule as to residency, then this man, if qualified, should have been hired.

crystal
"I just feel that they should know the community before they come up here trying to change things. Hendersonville does things different than we do. I just think that the should know how this community works before they just come in here with one mind set."
Who said this gentleman was going to "change" things or has "one mind set". Fresh idea's and vision are common with someone who is new to any position. Seems to me that people in this town have the "one mind set" and are afraid of any change.
This whole fiasco just reinforces the stereotype of "If'n yall ain't from 'round here, youse taint no good!"
Oh, I think he now knows way more about the community than ever before, should he still want/get the job.

When I used the word inept...I was referring to them not knowing the hiring proedures and not having their guidelines in mind before they brought that man before the Council to be voted on...and not having discussed this with the candidate before he was in the public eye...and not advising the City Attorney of any questions they had about it before he was asked in public about it...and the railroad issue of not asking CSX if they could make that road a one way street.

JW,
I know what you are saying about the other people who could unlock the stuff for you. I have been on the Soccer board now for 3 years and have dealt with them all a lot. They guys who work up there take a great pride in getting the fields ready for us, football, and baseball. I just feel that they should know the community before they come up here trying to change things. Hendersonville does things different than we do. I just think that the should know how this community works before they just come in here with one mind set.

Ok this is not about the parks director but water dept. Has anyone else had any trouble with Portland Utlities?

JW, to answer some of your response, to my knowledge there is none of the council or mayor who live outside, but THAT is a requirement! But city employees? probably more live out than in!

All city council members must reside within the city limits.
I am glad to see a council work together and one that is willing to give each other time. being thoughtful is not being inept.
but to many look for the bad and not the good.

Crystal,

I admire your firmness on this issue. I do however, have to disagree with you. I have a daughter and 2 god children involved in PYFL, and I don't see it the way you do at all. The parks director is not the only person involved in the process. There are others as well that could be called. Or you can contact the parks director who can send someone down to unlock these places for you. This happens with regard to field prep and other jobs that are involved in the process with regard to PYFL all the time. there are numerous people involved in the process not just the parks director.

I don't believe it is important live here with this type of position. If it were the mayor etc, yes then obviously it would be important. But this is the parks director, not the mayor.

I wonder how many of our city officials, city council or other city employees live outside of the city limit's of Portland. Perhaps someone could shed some light on this.

My opinion is that he would need to live here. I am very involved with the Parks Dept. They are a great bunch of people. I am over the Soccer Program here. When ever I need something in the office or not I call and they are right there to take care of it. If this guy lives in Hendersonville it would take him a longer time to get here and make people made. A perfect example is when we has our pictures this season that day it rained. I called The person over the parks dept and they were right there to let us in the gym for our pictures. I am a big believer that ig you want a job like that with our city you need to live here. The people on the committe problably do not have any kids or grandkids that play sports and do not realize the importance of them living here. You need to know the community and be involved not be involved in Hendersonville's community. This is my opionon but I am firm on it.

Jody,you asked the question of "why someone from the Hendersonville parks system want to come direct the Portland parks?"I would liken his position there to an assistant coach of a team at a large university who is offered his first HEAD coaching at a small school.You're right,this is a tough call.Do you support the people of this town by hiring one of our own,or do you support the people of this town by hiring a very well qualified candidate.That decision is why you make the big bucks(LOL).Just remember the fate of the fee world is resting on your shoulders.

Sadly, this process continues to repeat itself. Council makes move to hire/move city hall/do anything...months are put into the process...dollars are spent that can never be retrieved...after all of it...either no decision is made...a decision is made for more research or a decision is made with no merrit. If I was a qualified employee considering applying for a job with the city and I watched the meeting last night, after I got done laughing, I would never consider it again. Also, I think it will eventually be revealed that throwing in this stipulation is illegal. I know the council gets along well but to me, it's kind of like being a journalist. Time to time you have to make people mad in order to do what's right. Last night, nobody stood up and said this isnt' right, that if you don't want someone who's not from Portland, just don't vote for them.
I could even understand if any of the other dept. heads were required, but they're not. And you can't tell me that being available for the parks is more important than being here in case of a police or fire matter, or a public works emergency.

This turn of events is rather distressing. Does the administration of our city realize the ramifications of their actions Monday night? The gentleman presented for the position of our new Parks Director, regardless of the location of his residence, was obviously chosen by the interview committee to be the most qualified candidate. This job was posted for fulfillment in July. The middle of November is quickly upon us and we still do not have a Parks Director. This tedious process has taken over four months to culminate into what...the 11th hour revelation that he needs to live in Portland? If that indeed is such a high priority why did the administration not require this as a condition of the job prior to Monday night? Why was this qualified applicant interviewed and offered the job? Obviously because he is the most qualified candidate. You, the administration of our city, have put this man's life into a holding pattern for four months and now you wish to hang residency over his head like the Sword of Damocles? Your actions Monday night are a disgrace. You have dangled the proverbial carrot and he has jumped through all the hoops. The only decent and moral thing this administration should do at this point is offer an apology to Mr. Obsorne, correct your mistake, and place him into the position of Parks Director, a position for which he is obviously qualified. Years of experience in this field along with his interaction in the diversified programs offered in Hendersonville will bring nothing but a positive outcome for our parks department and our city. I beseech you to search your heart and your conscience. I beseech you to right the wrong done to this man. A man who obviously is willing to travel to Portland every day to make our park system better for this city. His commute time or residency is not relevant. What is very relevant is that he desires to work in our city, for our city. It is time for this administration to move forward with the growth of our city. Embrace the qualified candidates to fill the vacancies in our government based upon qualification, not location. Please don't let the best person for the job get away. I would understand and would not place blame on Mr. Osborne for not wanting the job given the turn of events Monday night, but you cannot impose a restriction of this nature upon him when it was not a stipulation during the entire interview process. It may be your prerogative to add this stipulation in the future but you cannot in all good conscience add it to this position in the 11th hour. It is unfair and unjust. I truly hope we have not lost this gentleman's respect and that he will still consider working for our city. I implore you to correct this heinous mistake. Give the man a chance to do the job for which he is qualified if he'll still have us.

Well, as I stated earlier, I'm kinda torn on the issue, and please let me explain a little.

When I was a policeman, Al hired a Hendersonville officer to our force. Please understand this has NOTHING to do with hendersonville, it's just merely a coincidence. Anyhow, I got soooo sick and tired of hearing him put down the people of portland. He would say things like "a good dentist could get rich here, because no one here had teeth" and just typically making fun of us "red-necks". I'm not incinuating that Mr. Osborne would do that. He is a VERY qualified person. But one of the councilmen questioned "why would someone from the hendersonville parks system want to come direct the Portland parks?" well? didn't we advertise for "qualified" applicants?

So I guess I started reliving my past experience, and found myself questioning why we wouldn't give our local applicants a chance. I do not think it was fair to Mr. Osborne however, that we put him on the spot during that televised meeting. We went ahead and gave Mr. Bratton the deferment he asked for, because as he said, there is nothing that said we HAD to vote YES to the hiring process.

I just hope that we DIDN'T run him off!

You have to admit, someone who has a close personal connection with our hometown would seem more likely to take pride in the community, rather than just someone taking the job because he was qualified and the money was good!

Do y'all see why I'm so torn?

I can tell you, politics were involved up front. I received several calls from citizens asking us to give a local applicant a chance. He too is very qualified, but, evidentally he was not the pick of the comittee who conducted the process. Why? I do not know.

So to sum all of this up and not ramble for ever, it WAS an interesting question to ask (whether he would move here or not). But IF that was a concern, it should have been asked BEFORE now!

I hope those who want this local hometown applicant understand my position, I will have to vote yes to hire Mr. Osborne whether he chooses to move here or not. Mainly because it's the reccomendation of the comittee. They must know something that I don't. These decisions can be tuff sometimes, please understand.

Thanks, Jody

Jody,

In my opinion you are the one lone voice for those of us who are tired of all of this "good ole boy" stuff. If you were to run for mayor you would have my vote and I wouldn't have to even think about it.

BUT, in this case is it really fair to nudge this person to move to Portland. If living in a town is that important, and this thinking that a person who lives here could do a better job? Come on Jody, this is just silly. Maybe all of our Senators and the President etc...should move here since that would trigger more involvement. I just don't buy this arguement at all. I am one who thinks the "outside" perspective might just do us all some good.

To ask this person to uproot his family, take his kids out of schools that they are used to, when that was not an up front expectation, is just wrong. Hendersonville is 30 minutes up the road, its not like he would be driving from Brentwood.

I understand your statement that there were others from Portland who were qualified who applied for this position and did not get it, and that you were not involved in the interview process.

I am intersted in knowing what you think about this whole thing. Not from a political standpoint, but what do you think as a Portland resident as to how this was and is being handled.

And by the way, we will await your announcement on running for mayor. I will be the first in line for a yard sign.

Daniel - no, you're not the only one who thought that meeting was wierd. I watched it on tv...and even watched it twice ! Looked even more wierd the second time ! It was disgraceful.

If anyone wants to know why Portland has the problems it has...look no further than the re-run of that meeting last night. One will see total ineptness, unprofessionalism, and a huge dose of small town politics in action.

It was truly a fiasco..and they should all be so embarrassed. I'm sure the City Attorney is furious for being put on the spot about this issue without having been advised before the meeting.

I thought I was the only one who thought that whole thing was weird. Check out my column tomorrow, I go off a little bit on some of our council members. I thought last night was totally unprofessional and showed a lack of integrity, or intelligence, hopefully the latter.

REPOSTS - taken from Novembers Around the town regarding this subject.
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Did any one else here Councilwoman McClerran, yeep out a no on the vote to deferment, and when the city recorder asked for clarification, she voted yes? I will have to watch the replay, but I am sure that's what I heard. Councilman Meadows was the only no vote.

Posted by: Yeep at November 6, 2007 01:38 PM
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MR BRAT

you said you are sure the community will speak to you about this, I'm not sure who you talk to
probably the rest of the good ole boys.
well listen up!
this was not fair not only to this gentleman and his family but our town as well, it was pitiful!
To the rest of you who did not stand up to mr b and say no to defer this was wrong your just as guilty.
Signs should read Welcome to Portland - where the good ole boys rule!

Posted by: OutOfLine at November 6, 2007 11:59 AM
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I'm in agreement with most of you on the living in Portland issue for city employees. I don't necessarily think that a person has to reside in a particular area to be able to put the welfare of that area first when employed by them. The paycheck is incentive enough for someone to put their priorities in the right place. However, having said that, if any city wants it's employees to be permanent residents, the requirement should be included in the job posting -- not thrown out there at decision making time! Seems to be a lot of time wasted and confusion on just about any decision made in the running of Portland! Just an observation!!!

Posted by: gw at November 6, 2007 11:01 AM
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I, too, watched this council meeting last night - then I watched it again to make sure what I heard and saw was correct. I just don't know what to think. Either the mayor and the town council are totally inept or there are last ditch political reasons for what went on in that meeting. It was disgraceful. That was simply pitiful last night.

If a condition of employment is living in the city, then that man should have known about that condition from the beginning and it not been sprung on him in public and on tv ! That was very unfair.

The thing about the railroad crossing...didn't the mayor or city council think to ask the railroad about that before they made that a one way street ?? Did they not think the railroad should have been consulted?

I am left wondering if the City Council even talks to each other about anything until they come to the monthly meeting.

I would have thought the City attorney would have been in on some of this from a legal standpoint - he was hearing all this for the first time last night, too, about the hiring issue.

That was very unfair to him, too. Gee, he must be irritated, too !

More evidence of Portland's inability to govern itself in any professional manner.

Seems to me, a precedent has already been set for city employees living outside of Portland. I don't see how the Park Director can be held to a rule that doesen't exist.

Posted by: DeeAnna at November 6, 2007 10:14 AM
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I watched this on TV last night and was dumb founded that during the final stages all this was brought out in the open, why in the world wasn't this considered prior to now, if it isn't already in the hiring guidelines for this position or ones similar this council (mr Bratton in particular) should be ashamed for what it has done to this candidate. A vote should of been allowed to occur with Bratton voting NO, and then addressed this issue for future positions.

It seems to me that this town is always putting the cart before the horse, how professional does this look to outsiders. While I agree that some positions should have a residency requirement and was further stunned that this is not already in place. I do agree that someone who has held like positions outside of our town could bring fresh ideas and would be a big plus to our community, I believe this candidate may very well of done just that! I am embarrased that our City leaders put him thru all this and pulled the rug out at this last minute, and "we'll" most likely become the laughing stock of sumner county.

I also have to ask what kind of process takes place prior to the council vote that all this time can be spent by who, what, when, and where.... determining who is best qualified only to find out at the yeah or nay there may be a conflict, makes no sense to me.

Posted by: Judy at November 6, 2007 08:43 AM
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This is an issue where I have a differing opinion than most.

Many people that know me, say I always look at things from a very different point of view so here goes on this issue.

First of all, Why is it necessary that this person live in Portland. I just can't grasp the need for this. Seems to me that utilizing only people from Portland has not done us much good in the past given that Portland in many ways is light years behind many of the communities around us.

Perhaps it would be better to have someone from the "outside" take control of some of these things. Maybe then some change will come.

Seems that there is a mentality in this town against what is percieved as "outsiders". Until this stops, this town is stuck right where it is.

This mentality that all things that are outside of our comfort zone are evil is so silly.

Someone mentioned the need for someone who share's a vision for Portlands future....exactly what is that vision of the future? I haven't heard it or seen it. Is this a book I can buy? because it seems I hear alot about this "vision" yet never seem to see or hear anything about this "vision". Is this some sort of religious experience? I mean with all this talk about this "vision". Could someone please fill us in on this "vision".

With regards to the parks director, a mountain is being made out of a mole hill here, yet again. I think it is high time for someone for the outside come in here and take some things over and I think it should happen more frequently.

Posted by: JW at November 6, 2007 07:28 AM
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Jody, thank you for asking for public input on this issue. I'm gonna sound like some I have complained about when I am negative and whine a little, but this reeks of politics! Like DA, I don't think you'll see Mr. Osborne again and what a shame. He is by far the best qualified candidate (yes, I'm aware of the others). The worst part is that all this was done publicly and at the last minute. You can bet the local papers will report it and it will be all over Hendersonville. If he isn't ready to commit to moving, he obviously won't get the job and his current employer will know all about it. If that was a requirement he should have been told and he could have pulled out earlier. This was a DIRTY trick and in my opinion a move to get someone else in the job. It will be interesting to see who is ultimately hired for this position and what connection they have with Mr. Bratton. At his urging, the council made a big mistake here.

Lastly, there are other dept heads who don't live in Portland or even in Sumner county. I'm more concerned about someone putting out a fire or answering an emergency police call than I am about them turning out the lights or locking the gate at the park. Mr. Bratton appears a little bit two faced here, don't you think? Thanks for what you do and thanks for listening, Jody.

Posted by: portland fan at November 6, 2007 07:16 AM
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Jody,
If there were no residency requirements upon applying, then that shouldn't factor into the decision. It should be based on whoever is the overall, best qualified candidate. So, if he is otherwise the most qualified candidate,(and someone, somewhere along the way was convinced he is or else it would have never been presented to the council for consideration) where he lives should NOT factor into the decision.

The main basis for my opinion is that, minus a residency requirement, there is nothing to prevent another candidate, who may currently reside here, from moving away from Portland. The secondary basis is that it inately unfair to add requirements mid-course, or in this case as they are crossing the finish line. Doing so, in this or in any other situation, could possibly open the city up to civil liability, especially if someone were to claim that the rules were changed as a means to discriminate.

Now, would I like to see a residency requirement for city workers? I don't think it is necessary for the majority of the positions, but it does make sense that department Directors should be stakeholders in the community. Maybe the council, or whoever develops job descriptions and determines qualifications, should consider including residency or relocation requirements for future positions of this caliber. However, all in all, I think it is MOST important to have a qualified individual who shares a vision for Portland's future.

Just my opinion.

Posted by: Michelle Hanners at November 6, 2007 06:47 AM
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Jody;
I agree, both sides have their merit. Perhaps Mr. Bratton should have stated his objections, voted no, and dealt with the issue of living here with future hirings in the City.

I don't think it's unusual for a person in a position of authority to live in a different city. If Portland wants only Portland citizens to be hired, then that should be part of the City Charter and definitely be made clear at the beginning of the application process.

I don't know how old this gentleman's children are, but it would be a HUGE family decision to move children from a school system like Hendersonville has, into the Portland system. We made that decision, moved our children from Beech to Portland, and have had cause to regret it.

I don't think you'll see that gentleman again, after the flogging he recieved Monday night.

Posted by: DA at November 6, 2007 06:12 AM

If the position does not require it, I do not feel it is relevant if the person selected lives in Portland or not. It shouldn't matter where he or she resides. Obviously the guy is interested or he wouldn't have applied.

Sorry for all of y'all who posted in the other entry, I finally got my login info and made this a post of it's own. :o)