Highlights and accomplishments of the Greater Nashville Regional Council during the 2024 program year.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the Chair
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About the Regional Council
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Regional Council Membership
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Professional Staff
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Agency Accomplishments
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Regional Impact
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Program Highlights
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Budget and Finance Highlights
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Year in Photos
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Cover photo features GNRC office in foreground and Nashville skyline in background
LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
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The accomplishments made over the last year are a testament to the commitment of each member of the regional council and the dedication and hard work of staff and partner organizations.
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Mayor Bob Rial 2023-2024 Chair, Greater Nashville Regional Council
Dear Fellow Council Members and Regional Partners ,
As I completed my second and final year as chair of the Greater Nashville Regional Council earlier this year, I found myself filled with pride as I reflected on a year of collaboration, growth, and meaningful progress for Middle Tennessee. I am particularly proud of the efforts of GNRC’s Economic and Community Development team, which played an instrumental role in securing and managing millions of dollars in state and federal grants for our member communities. These grants translate into significant, tangible improvements including investments in critical infrastructure for water and sewer systems, expanded broadband internet access, and increased capacity for area childcare centers. These investments are strengthening the foundation of our communities and improving quality of life across the region. Additionally, GNRC secured substantial funding through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help Middle Tennessee reduce the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions from various sectors including transportation, solid waste, power generation, agriculture, among others. With this funding, we are leading regional planning and community engagement efforts that will improve air quality and reduce energy costs for area households, businesses, and government agencies.
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Our advocacy for vulnerable populations saw notable success this year with the passage of the Tennessee Disability and Aging Act. This new legislation, which combines the efforts of the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability and the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, will better support our aging and disabled populations under a single Department of Disability and Aging. We are honored to have played a role in this collaborative legislative process, and we look forward to seeing the benefits this will bring to communities across the state. I am deeply grateful to the GNRC team, our member governments, and our dedicated partners and volunteers for their hard work and shared commitment to our region. Together, we have made significant strides in building a more resilient, connected, and vibrant region, and I am confident the years ahead will bring even greater accomplishments.
Respectfully,
Bob Rial Dickson County Mayor
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ABOUT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL
The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC or Regional Council) is a public agency initially created by the Tennessee General Assembly through the Development District Act of 1965 and further empowered in 1988 by Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 64, Chapter 7. Its purpose is to convene local and state leaders to cooperatively plan and prioritize state and federal investments into public infrastructure and a range of social services, and to provide technical assistance and staffing support to local governments and partnering state agencies to advance important community development projects. GNRC is co-owned by the municipal and county governments across Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson counties.
Our Mission
The Greater Nashville Regional Council assists local communities and state agencies in developing plans and programs that guide growth and development in the most desirable, efficient, and cost-effective manner while ensuring the continued long-term livability of the region. In carrying out this mission, GNRC convenes elected officials and local practitioners to brainstorm strategies for improving quality of life, facilitates cooperative policymaking to prioritize state and federal investments into area social services and public infrastructure, and provides a public forum for Middle Tennesseans to shape regional decisions.
CONNECTING COMMUNITIES. EMPOWERING PEOPLE.
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Annual Report | 2024
Our Core Values COMMUNITY FOCUSED
COLLABORATIVE We foster collaboration among local and state partners to identify and accelerate investments in Middle Tennessee communities. COMPREHENSIVE We provide comprehensive expertise and resources to ensure citizens and leaders stay connected with information and a variety of programs and services.
We respond to the grassroots needs of communities on a local and regional level, developing solutions and creating opportunities to meet those needs head-on. STRATEGIC We thoughtfully and responsibly develop plans and programs that are custom-tailored and grounded in information and analysis.
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Who We Represent
Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson Counties
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GNRC is one of nine development districts established by the Tennessee General Assembly to provide technical assistance to local governments and to facilitate regional planning and coordination. GNRC’s footprint is home to about a third of the state’s population.
COUNTIES 13
CITIES AND TOWNS 52
COUNCIL MEMBERS 93
MIDDLE TENNESSEANS 2M+
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We are a Regional Forum for Policy Makers. GNRC provides a regional forum where elected officials, industry experts, community leaders, and community members can come together to discuss issues and share ideas to help solve local challenges. This setting allows for candid conversations about Middle Tennessee’s future and connects communities with resources and investments to help achieve their vision.
GNRC’s work qualifies the state and local governments for billions in federal Funding.
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Annual Report | 2024
Designations and Major Programs
Area Agency On Aging and Disability GNRC is designated by the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging as the Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD) to provide care, nutrition, transportation, and other services to older or physically disabled Middle Tennesseans. GNRC is designated by the Bureau of TennCare as the single point of entry to Medicaid-reimbursed long-term services for senior adults, and adults over age 21 with a physical disability. GNRC participates as a member of the Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), serving as Middle Tennessee’s primary source of unbiased Medicare counseling.
Metropolitan Planning Organization GNRC provides administration and professional staffing support to the federally-designated Nashville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) responsible for implementing regional transportation planning and programming across Davidson, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties, and serves as a member of the Clarksville Urbanized Area MPO and the Middle Tennessee Rural Planning Organization. Economic Development District GNRC is designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to serve as the region’s Economic Development District and prepares the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) on behalf of local officials, Chambers of Commerce, and private sector investors.
Local Planning and Community Development GNRC offers a variety of local planning and economic and community development services to communities across the mid-state including grant-writing, administration, and technical assistance related to land use and zoning, solid waste, historic preservation, and housing. Small Business Lending GNRC partners with the U.S. Economic Development Administration to offer a revolving loan fund for economic development projects and provides professional staffing to the Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation (MADC), a Certified Development Company that offers small business lending through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus GNRC convenes the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus to support relationship building, shared learning, and regional collaboration around the development of state policy and legislative priorities.
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We are Cities and Counties Working Together. GNRC serves as the primary forum for collaboration for 52 municipal governments and 13 county governments across Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson counties.
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Annual Report | 2024
Council Officers 2023-2024 Program Year
CHAIR Mayor Bob Rial Dickson County
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Mayor Paige Brown City of Gallatin
VICE CHAIR Mayor Joe Pitts City of Clarksville
TREASURER Mayor Kerry McCarver Cheatham County
SECRETARY Michael Skipper Executive Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS The 13-member Board of Directors is empowered to act on behalf of the Regional Council body in executing agreements and working with the Executive Director to develop the annual work program and budget, evaluate membership dues rates, and maintain organizational and personnel policies and procedures.
* Mayor Joe Pitts (Chair), Mayor Kerry McCarver (Vice Chair), and Mayor Mary Esther Reed (Treasurer) were elected in June 2024 to lead GNRC through its 2024-2025 program year.
The Board consists of Regional Council officers and a member from each GNRC county not represented by one of the officers. The members of the Board of Directors are identified on the following page.
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REGIONAL COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP
RUTHERFORD COUNTY County Mayor Joe Carr Eagleville Mayor Chad Leeman LaVergne Mayor Jason Cole Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed To be Appointed, Social Equity Rep. Patrick Cammack, Business Rep. STEWART COUNTY County Mayor Robert Beecham Cumberland City Mayor Gary Vaughn Dover Mayor Lesa Fitzhugh To be Appointed, Social Equity Rep. To be Appointed, Business Rep.
CHEATHAM COUNTY County Mayor Kerry McCarver Ashland City Gerald Greer
HOUSTON COUNTY County Mayor Joey Brake Erin Mayor Paul Bailey Tennessee Ridge Mayor Stony Odom To be Appointed, Minority Rep. To be Appointed, Business Rep. HUMPHREYS COUNTY Executive Mike Pogreba McEwen Mayor Brad Rachford New Johnsonville Mayor David Cagle Waverly Mayor W. B. (Buddy) Frazier Taomasine Hill, Social Equity Rep. Ted Moore, Business Rep. MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Kingston Springs Mayor Tony Gross Pegram Mayor Charles Morehead Pleasant View Mayor Bill Anderson Hadley Williams, Social Equity Rep. Gina Anzaldua, Business Rep. DAVIDSON COUNTY Metropolitan Mayor Freddie O’Connell Belle Meade Mayor Rusty Moore Berry Hill Mayor Dennis Sheffield Forest Hills Mayor Lanson Hyde Goodlettsville Mayor Rusty Tinnin Oak Hill Mayor Dale Grimes
County Mayor Wes Golden Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts
SUMNER COUNTY County Mayor John Isbell Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown
Trey Reliford, Social Equity Rep. Jamari Brown, Business Rep. DICKSON COUNTY
Rene Llanos, Social Equity Rep. Buck Dellinger, Business Rep. ROBERTSON COUNTY
Hendersonville Mayor Jamie Clary Millersville Mayor Tommy Long Mitchellville Mayor Jimmie Aaron Green Portland Mayor Mike Callis Westmoreland Mayor David Leath White House Mayor John Corbitt Lynn Bowles, Social Equity Rep. Chris Taylor, Business Rep.
County Mayor Bob Rial Burns Mayor Rusty Grove
County Mayor Billy Vogle Adams Mayor Wayne Evans
Charlotte Mayor Garland Breeden Dickson Mayor Don L. Weiss, Jr. Slayden Mayor Michael Davenport Vanleer Mayor Derrick Lynch White Bluff Mayor Stephanie Murrell Dwight Haynes, Social Equity Rep. Darrell James, Business Rep.
Cedar Hill Mayor John Edwards Coopertown MayorJeff Smith Cross Plains Mayor Barry Faulkner Greenbrier Mayor Lanny Adcock Orlinda Mayor Alfred Brickles Ridgetop Mayor Tim Shaw Springfield Mayor Buzzy Poole White House Mayor John Corbitt To be Appointed, Social Equity Rep. Sara Warren, Business Rep.
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Annual Report | 2024
The Regional Council governing body is made up of 93 members and includes 13 county mayors and executives, 52 mayors of cities or towns, two members of the Tennessee General Assembly, and 26 appointments representing business and social equity.
WILSON COUNTY County Mayor Randall Hutto Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell
TROUSDALE COUNTY County Mayor Jack McCall Mae Wright, Social Equity Rep. Charly Lyons, Business Rep. WILLIAMSON COUNTY County Mayor Rogers Anderson Brentwood Mayor Mark Gorman Fairview Mayor Lisa Anderson Franklin Mayor Ken Moore Nolensville Mayor Halie Gallik Spring Hill Mayor Jim Hagaman Thompson’s Station Mayor Brian Stover Juanita Patton, Social Equity Rep. Kel McDowell, Business Rep.
Mount Juliet Mayor James Maness Watertown Mayor Michael Jennings Patrick Johnson, Social Equity Rep. Corey Johns, Business Rep. TENNESSEE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Representative Susan Lynn Senator, To be Appointed
Members listed in orange serve on the Board of Directors Regional Council roster as of December 2024
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COMMITTEE AND PROGRAM LEADERSHIP GNRC programs are supported by various boards and committees including the Aging Advisory Council, the Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation board of directors, the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus, the Transportation Policy Board and the Transportation Coordinating Committee, and its Rourdtable network among others.
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Annual Report | 2024
Mayors Caucus Ken Moore, Chair City of Franklin Mayor Transportation Policy Board Mike Callis, Chair City of Portland Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Vice Chair Metro Nashville Mayor Transportation Coordinating Committee Josh Suddath, Chair Sumner County Planning Director Jonathan Marston, Vice Chair City of Franklin Assistant Director of Engineering Transportation Project Delivery Task Force
Aging Advisory Committee Don Ames, Chair Representing Sumner County Monroe Gildersleeve, Vice Chair Representing Montgomery County I.T. Directors Roundtable Sarah VanWarmer, Co-Chair City of Brentwood Technology Director Cody York, Co-Chair Rutherford County Chief Information Officer Solid Waste Strike Force Bob Rial, Chair Dickson County Mayor Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation Mark Beeler, President Representing Trousdale County
Mary Esther Reed, Chair Town of Smyrna Mayor
Scott Bagwell, Vice-President Representing Robertson County Jerome Terrell, Secretary/Treasurer Representing Cheatham County
GNRC’s Committees and roundtables meet regularly to work together to address regional issues
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PROFESSIONAL STAFF
GNRC employs more than 80 professional staff members to support agency activities and provide additional capacity to local government and state agencies.
We are Experts and Dedicated Public Servants.
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Annual Report | 2024
Leadership Team
Michael Skipper Executive Director
Michelle Lacewell Deputy Director
Kristen Scuderi Chief of Staff
Candi Henry Chief Legal Counsel
Sara Fowler Director of Aging and Disability Services
Megan Nelson Director of Finance
Daniel McDonell Director of Transportation and Infrastructure
Max Baker Director of Research and Analytics
Jessica Hill Director of Community and Regional Planning
Amy Napoli Director of Economic and Community Development
Amanda Evilcizer Manager of Human Resources
Peter Westerholm Director of External Affairs and Partnerships
Angie Hutchinson Manager of Office and Administrative Services
Leadership team as of December 2024
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Research and Analytics Max Baker, Director of Research and Analytics Ashleigh Glasscock, Senior Research Analyst Haryono Prawiranata, Senior Research Analyst Joanna McCall, Senior Research Analyst Samuel Williams, Research Analyst
Executive Office and Administrative Support Michael Skipper, Executive Director Michelle Lacewell, Deputy Director Kristen Scuderi, Chief of Staff Ashley Obel, Special Projects Coordinator HR and Office Support Amanda Evilcizer, Human Resources Manager Angie Hutchison, Office Manager Sherry Cosby, Senior Administrative Assistant Lou Edwards, Senior Administrative Assistant Hannah Lovergine, Administrative Assistant Legal and Risk Management Department Candi Henry, Chief Legal Counsel Grant Kehler, Compliance Officer Finance and Accounting Department Megan Nelson, Finance Director Jovia King, Finance Manager Trey Alford, Finance Officer MaKenzie Healy, Finance Officer Yiqing (Veronica) Zhu, Finance Officer
Community and Regional Planning Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Regional Planning Brian Halma, Senior Planner Debaleena Debnath Mukherjee, Senior Planner
Jaret Schaffer, Associate Planner Madelyn Boles, Associate Planner Skyler Ellis, Associate Planner
Economic and Community Development Amy Napoli, Director of Economic and Community Development Amy Thorne, ECD Specialist Chris Barber, ECD Specialist Rhonda Smith, Small Business Lending Transportation and Infrastructure Daniel McDonell, Director of Transportation and Infrastructure Taylor Lee, Transportation Project Delivery Coordinator Andrew McIntyre, Associate Planner Tom Fox, Public Transportation Coordinator
External Affairs and Communications Peter Westerholm, Dir. of External Affairs and Partnerships Rebecca Nofi, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager Rachel Solava, Aging Services Outreach and Advocacy Manager Emery Hartz, Planning and Community Development Outreach Mgr.
Shannon Lewallen, Creative Services Manager Cole Dugan, Creative Services Coordinator
Staff roster as of December 2024
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Annual Report | 2024
Aging and Disability Services Sara Fowler, Director of Aging & Disability Programs Aging and Disability Support April Merritts, Aging Support Specialist Ruth Childers, Aging Support Specialist Quality Assurance and Monitoring Marilyn Wade, Program Manager Christy Earheart, Quality Assurance Analyst Jennifer Meade, Quality Assurance Analyst Medicare Counseling (SHIP) Christine Mather, Medicare Counseling Coordinator Jordan Conaway, Medicare Volunteer Coordinator
TennCare CHOICES Intake Fredna Neas Hodge, Program Manager Venus Johnson, Lead Counselor Jason Draper, Senior Counselor Misty Donaldson, Senior Counselor Kara Tillery, Counselor Traci O’Kelley, Counselor Janie Jewell, Ombudsman Lisa Brooks, Financial Coordinator Service Coordination Earlean Chenault, Program Manager Pamela Williamson, Lead Counselor BreAnna Khoury, Senior Counselor Illisa Gay, Senior Counselor Jenny Calvillo, Senior Counselor Deborah Carson, Counselor Jacqueline Smith, Counselor Kristin Griffin, Counselor Quenteena Baldwin-Jarrett, Counselor Shelia Perry, Counselor Tammy Cooper, Counselor
Public Guardianship Keisha Harris, Public Conservator Susan Gilliam, Asst. Public Conservator
Veterans’ Support Services Anthony Anderson, Senior Counselor
Information and Assistance Diane Schlaufman, Program Manager Mark Singer, Lead Counselor Alexandra Ciampoli, Counselor Carole Russell-Griffin, Counselor
Caroline Sprenger, Counselor KJ McKelley-Havron, Counselor Meg Krafft, Counselor
Data Management Cynthia Balfour, Program Manager David Edmonds, Data Processor
Family Caregiver Support Johnna Neel, Lead Counselor
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AGENCY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Educated Lawmakers on the Importance of Development Districts GNRC partnered with its counterparts as members of the Tennessee Development District Association to increase the level of awareness among state elected officials and the administration. Development Districts were created by the Tennessee General Assembly in 1965 and play an important role in community development efforts and in enabling access to state resources allocated to improving quality of life, environmental quality, and economic prosperity. Development Districts have not seen a significant change in funding allocation from the state government since 2007 and are asking the legislature to modernize the funding formula in 2025. Expanded Outreach and Engagement Efforts GNRC reorganized and expanded its external affairs and community outreach team to strengthen its partnerships and deepen its engagement with local communities. The team will lead or support engagement through volunteer programming and targeted outreach strategies to make sure the organization’s resources are deployed to meet the individual and collective needs of Middle Tennessee residents, businesses, and public agencies. Created a new Department of Transportation and Infrastructure GNRC created a new Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to enhance its ability to meet the challenges of Middle Tennessee’s rapid pace of growth. The new department will provide an increased opportunity for local governments to collaborate with the TN Dept of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, and Federal Transit Administration as the region focuses on accelerating the delivery of transportation improvements. In FY 2025, GNRC will leverage the new department to launch a regional quick build pilot program focused on improving roadway safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
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Annual Report | 2024
Governors Bill Haslam and Phil Bredesen with Demetria Kalodimos at GNRC’s Annual Partnership Luncheon
Convened Regional Leaders to Focus on Bipartisan Collaboration GNRC honored former mayors Karl Dean and Ernest Burgess with the inaugural Pillar of the Region Legacy Award at its 2023 Annual Partnership Event. This prestigious honor, presented on behalf of current and former mayors, agency staff, and organizational partners, recognizes their enduring contributions to Middle Tennessee’s prosperity through their unwavering and selfless embodiment of the spirit of regionalism. The event also featured former Tennessee Governors Bill Haslam and Phil Bredesen who reinforced the importance of bipartisan collaboration as demonstrated through their podcast, “You Might Be Right.”
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REGIONAL IMPACT
During fiscal year 2024, GNRC leveraged its $21.9 million budget to improve the lives of thousands of Middle Tennesseans and to support a variety of local planning and community development initiatives. The map to the right depicts the location of grants and infrastructure investments, planning assistance, and aging and disability services administered by GNRC during the fiscal year.
The following pages provide a closer look at the local impact of each GNRC program area.
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Maury County is a South Central Tennessee Development District member but participates in various programs and activities of the Greater Nashville Regional Council.
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Program Reach
Aging and Disability Services
As the Area Agency on Aging and Disability for 13 counties, GNRC plans and coordinates various programs and services to improve the quality of life for older adults and those with disabilities across Middle Tennessee. Each dot represents a location where services or programs have been provided.
LEGEND
Information and Screening Nutrition / Meal Services Transportation Services In-Home Services
Guardianship Services *One dot represents 10 clients
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Annual Report | 2024
Economic and Community Development As the Economic Development District for northern Middle Tennessee, GNRC is responsible for developing the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy to guide federal investment into projects that help retain and create jobs. Each dot represents a location of investment through ECD grants and programs.
LEGEND ECD Grant Assistance Small Business Loans Arts Grants Tourism Grants *One dot represents one client
Community and Regional Planning
At the local level, GNRC’s planning team works directly with communities on matters related to land use, zoning, and design guidelines. At a regional scale, the team coordinates the production of infrastructure plans and capital investment programs. Each dot represents the location of a planning project, technical assistance contract, or direct investment in the transportation system through the Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program.
LEGEND County Planning Assistance City Planning Assistance Transportation Grant Obligations Environmental Planning Long-Range Planning Project *One dot represents one client
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Aging and Disability Services
GNRC’s Aging and Disability Services empower older adults and adults with physical disabilities to maintain a high quality of life in their homes and communities for as long as possible by providing them with information and support.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Elder Financial Abuse Hotline In collaboration with other Area Agencies on Aging and Disability across the state, GNRC advocated for legislation to establish a “1-800” hotline for financial institutions to help protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation. This initiative addresses growing concerns about fraud, particularly elder fraud, which has become increasingly sophisticated. The hotline would enable financial institutions to report suspicious activity, prompting investigations by the local and state law enforcement agencies to guard seniors. Adopt-A-Center Last year, the Medicare Counseling team launched the “Adopt-A-Center” program to strengthen GNRC’s presence at contracted senior centers. Volunteers were assigned to 10 centers and worked with directors to establish regular schedules for providing Medicare counseling and resources. This initiative helped build relationships with center members and enhanced GNRC’s support for the centers.
Standing RFP for Provider Services GNRC addressed the ongoing challenge of finding service providers for clients by launching a year-round Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Previously, new providers had to wait for the annual RFP cycle to submit proposals. Now, GNRC continuously accepts proposals from qualified agencies and businesses to provide in-home, transportation, or other services for older adults and adults with disabilities. Senior Center Rebranding GNRC used ARPA funding for Aging and Disability Services to support the rebranding of senior centers, helping them attract a broader range of participants by modernizing their image. By shifting away from outdated perceptions and focusing on active, fulfilling lifestyles, the rebranding aims to make senior centers more appealing to today’s older adults. As a result, Senior Citizens of Hendersonville is now known as Elevate 50 Hendersonville, and the Senior Center at Ashland City has been renamed Thrive 55+.
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Annual Report | 2024
LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES 1,900+ Individuals assisted through the CHOICES intake process
CAREGIVER SUPPORT 300+ Caregivers received respite support Individuals received Medicare Counseling 9,600+ MEDICARE COUNSELING or screening services 5,000+ INFORMATION + ASSISTANCE Individuals received meals through program partners 5,000+ MEAL PROGRAMS
IN-HOME SERVICES 500+ Individuals received in-home services
Individuals received information
33 Veterans received assistance from loved ones or family friends VETERANS SERVICES
53 PUBLIC GUARDIANSHIP Individuals received conservatorship services
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Economic and Community Development The Economic and Community Development team collaborates with local elected leaders, area chambers of commerce, local and state economic development officials, and state and federal agencies to prioritize and invest in initiatives that increase economic prosperity and improve quality of life throughout the region.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Deployment of American Rescue Plan Act Funds Over the last year, GNRC has supported its members through grant writing and administration related to programs funded by the America Rescue Plan Act. The scope of grant opportunities and support needed by local communities was at an all-time high in 2024, leading to the team managing an unprecedented 44 grants providing funds for water and sewer infrastructure, broadband expansion, and workforce and digital literacy skills training, among other investments.
Long-Term Disater Recovery GNRC was awarded a $392,000 grant from the U.S. EDA to launch a new regional Long-Term Disaster Recovery program to provide grant writing and planning assistance to help Middle Tennessee communities faced with rebuilding in the wake of recent disasters. In addition, the grant will fund planning, research, and outreach activities to help develop resources for communities to increase their preparedness for and resilience against extreme weather events and the possibility of future natural disasters. Lending for Job Creation GNRC was awarded $2.15 million from the U.S. EDA to recapitalize is revolving loan fund program. Originally established in the 1980s, this fund supports job creation and retention across Middle Tennessee by providing low-cost gap financing to private and public entities dedicated to the implementation of the region’s economic development goals.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY In 2025, GNRC will begin working with local economic development professionals to update the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Required by federal law, the CEDS aligns Middle Tennessee’s public policies and infrastructure investments with local and state economic development goals and guides federal funding into job-inducing projects across the area.
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Annual Report | 2024
SMALL BUSINESS LENDING $20M
ARTS AND CREATIVE PLACEMAKING $81K
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS $53K
GRANT WRITING AND ADMINISTRATION $50M
GNRC assisted local partners in successfully apply for or managing more than $50 million worth of state and federal grants
GNRC and MADC have a combined loan portfolio of $20 million across 54 projects, collectively creating more than 514 jobs across the region
GNRC awarded over $81,000 in state grants to local communities and non-profit organizations to fund arts projects across the region
GNRC’s investment of $21,000 in state grants leveraged more than $53,000 in total spending on tourist development activities
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Community and Regional Planning
The Community and Regional Planning team plays a vital role in shaping the future of Middle Tennessee. Its programs and services operate on a multi-county regional scale and at the neighborhood level.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Regional Plans for Emissions Reduction GNRC was awarded a $1 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lead regional planning and community engagement efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality within the Nashville-Davidson- Murfreesboro-Franklin MSA. These efforts were coordinated with the State of Tennessee’s statewide emissions reduction plan, known as the Tennessee Volunteer Emission Reduction Strategy. As part of the CPRG program’s first phase, GNRC developed a regional greenhouse gas inventory and collaborated with local jurisdictions to identify high-priority projects ready for implementation. Public engagement played a critical role, with GNRC organizing community meetings, surveys, and outreach to gather input on improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and enhancing quality of life. Watershed Planning Activities Through a partnership with TDEC, GNRC drafted three Watershed-Based Plans to help improve water quality in Davidson, Dickson, and Rutherford Counties. The main goal of these plans was to restore damaged streams and remove them from Tennessee’s list of polluted waterways. Each plan development involved studying local streams to determine what pollutes them and identifying strategies to enhance water quality. The plans also provided a guide for timelines, cost estimates, and methods for tracking progress to ensure the proposed solutions are working.
Local Planning Support In FY 2024, GNRC assisted 15 communities with current and long-range planning activities, collectivity carrying out more than 200 plat reviews, 85+ zoning changes, 35+ text amendments, and facilitating community engagement for four comprehensive land use plans. • Town of Coopertown • Town of Dover • Town of White Bluff • Dickson County for the 13-county region of Middle Tennessee. The assessment provided a comprehensive analysis of the region’s current solid waste systems and projected future facility needs based on anticipated population growth and economic development. The report included key components such as 10-year demographic projections, an evaluation of solid waste generation and management systems, and an assessment of existing and potential waste capacity. It also offered recommendations to address projected shortfalls and ensure alignment with state goals for waste management and sustainability. 10-Year Solid Waste Needs Assessment Update GNRC completed a 10-year Solid Waste Needs Assessment
• City of Adams • City of Charlotte • City of Dickson • City of McEwen • City of Millersville
• Humphreys County • Robertson County • Rutherford County • Trousdale County • Wilson County
• City of Portland • City of Ridgetop • City of Westmoreland • Town of Burns
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Annual Report | 2024
CLIMATE POLLUTION REDUCTION PLANNING $1M
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AND PROGRAMMING
CAPITAL AND INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING
$370M $22B
More than $370 million in federal funds were made available to transportation projects in MPO communities during federal FY 2024
GNRC was awarded a $1 million grant to help local communities qualify for a portion of the $4.6 billion in implementation grants from EPA
Nearly 3,000 projects totaling more than
$22 billion in infrastructure needs have been identified across the region
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Research and Analytics
The Research and Analytics team maintains information and datasets, creates maps and other data visualizations, and performs analysis supporting the organization’s programs and local member data needs.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory GNRC developed a simplified statewide Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory using a hybrid approach as part of its work on the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program. This method combined data from the EPA’s National Inventory Summaries with default inputs from EPA’s State Inventory Tool modules. The process enabled the team to evaluate data needs for a comprehensive GHG inventory and provide key metrics such as airport enplanements, solid waste tonnage, and vehicle miles traveled, among others, to estimate emissions levels across the region. Traffic Monitoring with “Big Data” GNRC leveraged comprehensive, high-fidelity data from Replica to enhance regional transportation planning efforts. Using Replica’s data insights, GNRC expanded its analysis of real-world traffic and mobility patterns to assess current conditions like bottlenecks and the factors contributing to peak congestion while also optimizing its traffic forecasting models. GNRC has made the data available to member jurisdictions in support of local efforts to improve data-driven decision making and to align the region’s long-term goals for growth and accessibility with local priorities.
Special Census GNRC is one of the few agencies authorized by the state to carry out the verification process for municipalities or counties conducting a special census count. GNRC’s responsibilities include reviewing count data for compliance with state requirements and conducting a field verification to test data accuracy. In FY24, GNRC conducted special census verifications for the Town of Nolensville, City of Lebanon and the City of Mt. Juliet. Over a two-month period, GNRC’s team verified the residency of more than 10,000 individuals across all three communities to complete the process. 2050 Growth Forecasts The Research and Analytics team is preparing growth forecasts to predict population, employment, and land development trends out to the year 2050. GNRC houses the regional land use and travel demand models that are used by local, state, and national policymakers, grant funders, planners, and economic development professionals to prepare for the future. The land use model combines economic and social theories to forecast future changes and long-term impacts on land use. Similarly, the travel demand model predicts future travel patterns based on anticipated personal and commercial behaviors. For the first time, GNRC has fully integrated these two models, allowing staff to gain deeper insights into the relationship between land use decisions and infrastructure needs.
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Annual Report | 2024
NUMBER OF PARCELS NUMBER OF ROADWAY LANE-MILES 945K+ 798K+ 28K+ NUMBER OF BUILDING STRUCTURES
GNRC staff have analyzed the development policy of more than 945K individual parcels of land
GNRC staff have analyzed the traffic conditions of more than 28K miles of travel lanes
GNRC staff have analyzed the land use of more than 798K individual building structures
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Policy and Government Affairs
The Policy and Government Affairs team supports the organization by participating in various local, statewide and national initiatives carried out by public agencies and non-profit organizations.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Regional Priorities The Policy team’s work includes building partnerships with other organizations with a common interest in aging and disability issues, population health outcomes, affordable housing, social equity and inclusion, environmental quality, and growth and development trends. Mayors Caucus The Mayors Caucus serves as the government affairs arm of GNRC. The Caucus was formed in 2009 to provide leadership on important issues facing a rapidly changing regional landscape. The Caucus has served as an effective forum for building working relationships among mayors and has helped local governments support each other on issues ranging from flood recovery to state and federal legislative and policy priorities. Consultant support is provided by Stones River Group. Cumberland Region Tomorrow Cumberland Region Tomorrow (CRT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for quality growth across Middle Tennessee. In FY 2024, GNRC provided staffing support to CRT’s board of directors, assisted with community outreach, and helped develop content for the Power of Ten regional summit as the organization on-boarded their new executive director.
GNRC Annual Awards The most notable effort to engage elected and state leaders in fiscal year 2024 was GNRC’s Annual Partnership Luncheon which brought together Middle Tennessee’s mayors, elected and state leaders, and community partners to commemorate a year of outstanding accomplishments. The event featured former governors Bill Haslam and Phil Bredesen as keynote speakers and the presentation of GNRC’s Annual Awards. Policy Roundtables GNRC’s Roundtables bring together industry professionals, public-sector practitioners, and local elected leaders around specific issues of regional interest. These informal working groups provide opportunities for networking and a forum for collaboration and consultation to support the implementation of GNRC programs, plans, and policy initiatives. During FY 2024, GNRC facilitated meaningful work through its Environmental Roundtable, IT Directors Roundtable, and Solid Waste Strike Force. More information about these groups can be found at GNRC.org/Roundtables.
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Annual Report | 2024
EXCELLENCE IN INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AWARD
EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP AWARD
EXCELLENCE IN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Mayor Mary Esther Reed was recognized for her leadership as chair of the Project Delivery Task Force. She brought together local, state, and federal government partners to develop strategies for enhancing the region’s transportation system.
TennCare received this award for spearheading a multi-sectoral approach to developing the state’s most comprehensive plan to address the needs of older Tennesseans.
Commissioner Butch Eley, with the Tennessee Department of Transportation, was honored for his advocacy for the Transportation Modernization Act. His dedication has ushered in innovative methods to enhance Tennessee’s transportation system.
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Volunteer Programming
The volunteer program builds capacity to extend the impact of GNRC’s regional programs and services. GNRC also provides resources to its members to increase volunteer opportunities in local communities. Volunteers played key roles in administrative tasks, planning, aging and disability programs, and the Medicare counseling program, providing invaluable support across multiple departments. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
HOURS SPENT SUPPORTING GNRC PROGRAMS 20,403
NEW VOLUNTEERS ENGAGED 837
TOTAL ACTIVE
VOLUNTEERS 1,754
IN 2024, VOLUNTEERS SENT MORE THAN 20,000 LETTERS TO SENIORS AND THOSE WITH DISABILITIES FOR A TOTAL OF 100,000 LETTERS SENT SINCE THE CAMPAIGN STARTED IN APRIL OF 2020. Letter Writing Campaign 100,000 LETTERS MAILED
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Annual Report | 2024
VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTIONS
TENNCARE SURVEYS
29 volunteers provided 184 hours of admin support 184 ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE Volunteer hours MEDICARE COUNSELING 12 78 8,000+ Individuals reached through events and presentations $2,477 Average amount of money beneficiaries saved Hours spent conducting surveys
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
168 305
Hours spent to support transportation planning
GUARDIANSHIP PROGRAM
Friendly visits to Guardianship clients
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Budget and Finance Highlights
GNRC’s annual budget is primarily composed of revenue from state and federal grants awarded to the organization to carry out various programs and services aimed at improving the region’s economy and quality of life through investments in planning and coordination, social services, and infrastructure. Many of those state and federal grants require local matching funds. Matching funds are provided through a combination of local membership dues, program revenue, and an allocation from the Tennessee State budget.
Budgeted Revenue by Program Area
AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL PLANNING
Federal Grants State Funds
Member Dues Program Revenue
Federal Grants State Funds
Member Dues Program Revenue
Federal Grants State Funds
Member Dues Program Revenue
State Grantors TN Advisory Council on Intergovernmental Relations Tennessee Arts Commission Bureau of TennCare TN Dept of Disability and Aging TN Dept of Economic and Community Development TN Dept of Environment and Conservation TN Dept of Tourist Development TN Dept of Transportation Tennessee Housing Development Agency
Federal Grantors U.S. Dept of Agriculture U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services U.S. Dept of Housing and Urban Development U.S. Dept of the Interior U.S. Dept of Transportation U.S. Economic Development Administration
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Small Business Administration
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Annual Report | 2024
Revenue and Expenditures
Graphic depicts GNRC’s FY 2024 Annual Budget. The current budget is available at GNRC.org/Annual Budget.
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Year in Photos
This annual report provides an opportunity to reflect on the diversity of GNRC’s work during FY 2024. The year included several meaningful projects and partnerships, some of which are showcased in photos on the next few pages. Captions can be found on page 44.
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Annual Report | 2024
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Photo Captions and Credits Inside cover photo credit: Nashville Downtown Partnership
Year in Review Photos 1. GNRC staff at the Nashville Sounds game promoting Medicare counseling services 2. GNRC staff Rachel Solava and April Merritt promoting Aging and Disability services at the Time Out Workshop 3. TDDA Commissioner Brad Turner, Gov. Bill Lee, Candi Henry (GNRC), Melinda Goode (NWTDD), Mark Farley (UCDD) at the bill signing to create the TN Dept of Disability and Aging
Pg. 3 Mayor Bob Rial, Mayor Mary Esther Reed, former mayors Earnest Burgess and Karl Dean, Mayor Rogers Anderson at GNRC’s Partnership Luncheon Pg. 5 Mayor Joe Pitts, Mayor Mike Callis, Mayor Jack McCall, Mayor Paige Brown, Mayor Billy Vogel, Ralph Schulz, Gov. Bill Lee, Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Mayor Rick Bell, Mayor Ken Moore, Wright Penson, Vice Mayor Angie Henderson Pg. 8 Meeting of the Transportation Policy Board Pg. 10 Mayor Joe Pitts, Mayor Jack McCall, Mayor Ken Moore, Mayor Rick Bell at the Nashville Area Chamber’s Governor’s Address Pg. 13 Meeting of the Transportation Policy Board Pg 14 Meeting of the Solid Waste Task Force Pg. 16 Group photo of GNRC staff at Second Harvest Food Bank Pg. 18 GNRC staff members Allie Ciampoli, Sara Fowler, Cynthia Balfour, Rachel Solava, Peter Westerholm, Ashley Obel at the AgeWell of Mid TN annual meeting Pg. 19 GNRC staff Johnna Neel, Jessica Hill, Jovia King, Peter Westerholm at the holiday party; GNRC staff Rhonda Smith, Gretchen Trast, James Dean, Amy Napoli, Gwen Schaefer Pg. 21 Former Governors Bill Haslam, and Phil Bredesen with Demetria Kalodimos at GNRC’s Partnership Luncheon Pg. 27 Jamie Canady (SCTDD), Kim Daugherty (ACMS), TDDA Commissioner Brad Turner, Gov. Bill Lee, Aaron Bradley (ETHRA), Holly Williams (UCDD), Sara Fowler (GNRC), Jessica Rice (SWTDD) Pg 29 Travis Goth (Maury Allauince), Lyndi Berrones (TnECD), Becca Melton (Spring Hill Chamber), Michael Skipper (GNRC), Nathan Zipper (Williamson Inc.), Jena Potter (Williamson Inc.), Maureen Thornton (Visit Franklin), Claudia Zuazua, Nick Biniker, and Kel McDowell (Williamson Inc.) Pg. 31 Carrie Brumfield, Michelle, Emery, Mary Beth, Michael, Peter Westerholm at the kick-off for the Choose How You Move campaign Pg. 33 Michael Skipper, Murat Arik, David Plaza, Dr. Joyce Heames, Mayor Paige Brown, Mayor Joe Pitts, and Mayor Ken Moore at MTSU for a Forum on Growth Challenges in Middle Tennessee Pg. 35 – Mayor Bob Rial, Mayor Mary Esther Reed, former mayors Earnest Burgess and Karl Dean, TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley, Mayor Rogers Anderson, Mayor Randall Hutto, Mayor Joe Pitts at GNRC’s Partnership Luncheon
4. GNRC staff volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank 5. GNRC staff at a public meeting for CPRG program
6. Mayor Rick Bell (Lebanon), Mayor Billy Vogle (Robertson County), Mayor Mike Callis (Portland) at the Nashville Area Chamber’s Governor’s Address 7. Alan Thompson, Amy Napoli, and Joe Griffin at GNRC’s Partnership Luncheon 8. GNRC staff Jordan Conaway promoting Medicare counseling services at a CenterWell Outreach event 9. Meeting of the Project Delivery Taskforce 10. Doug Sloane, Michael Skipper, Michael Cass, and Ralph Schulz at GNRC’s Partnership Luncheon 11. Members of GNRC’s Aging and Disability Services Department at the Time Out Workshop 12. Marilyn Wade, Mayor McCall, Ginny Gregory, and Sara Fowler at Senior Center Directors’ meeting 13. Members of GNRC’s planning team engaging with Lebanon Senior Center members about their transportation needs 14. Members of GNRC’s Aging and Disability Services Department at a Senior Center Directors’ meeting 15. GNRC staff Johnna Neel and Rachel Solava at Fifty Forward’s Adult Day Anniversary event 16. GNRC staff Lou Edwards and Sherry Cosby at the agency’s Halloween party. 17. Michael Skipper with Leslie Wollack at the National Association of Regional Council’s Executive Director’s conference. 18. GNRC staff and executive directors from Senior Centers across Middle Tennessee at the Trousdale Senior Center for a Directors’ meeting 19. Maddie Miller, Paula Daigle, Rebecca Nofi, Carrie Brumfield, and Sara Fowler at the GNRC Partnership Luncheon 20. GNRC staff members Pam Williams, Quenteena Baldwin-Jarrett, Hary Prawiranata, Shea Northfield, and Brain Halma volunteering at Second Harvest.
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Title VI and ADA Compliance GNRC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), family status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, limited English proficiency, any other class protected by applicable law. A copy of the Non-Discrimination Policy is available at GNRC.org/Legal . Complaints or request for accommodation should be directed to Grant Kehler, Non-Discrimination Coordinator, 44 Vantage Way, Ste 450, Nashville, TN 37228, or by calling 615-862-8828.
GNRC.org
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