GNRC Annual Report for FY 2022

Highlights and accomplishments of the Greater Nashville Regional Council during FY 2022.

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES. EMPOWERING PEOPLE.

View the Annual Report online at GNRC.org/AnnualReport

Downtown Clarksville on the Cumberland River

CONTENTS

05 Letter from the President 06 Agency Milestones 08 About the Regional Council 14 Regional Council Leadership 20 Agency Programs and Staff 24 Organizational Highlights 26 Regional Impact of Programs 30 Program Highlights 42 Budget and Finance Highlights

Downtown Gallatin

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Fellow Council Members and Regional Partners,

As my term as Council president comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the organization’s accomplishments over the last few years. I am struck by the meaningful progress that our Council members have made to strengthen our resolve for regional collaboration. I am in awe of the advances made by our staff and partners to not only enhance our traditional programming, but to bring about new capacity to help us address the challenges that we face together. 2022 marks an important milestone for GNRC and its membership. It was five years ago that GNRC unveiled its new brand identity, along with the tagline, “Connecting Communities, Empowering People.” That was a defining moment. It was the culmination of organizational restructuring, the addition of the Nashville Area MPO program and the relocation of the agency’s operations. Most importantly, it was the moment that members of the Regional Council established a new, shared vision for the organization. One of the most important roles that GNRC serves is that of a convener. GNRC is Middle Tennessee’s shared forum for bringing together elected officials, state and federal agencies, practitioners, and experts across jurisdictional boundaries and the traditional silos of government. I have seen firsthand the growing recognition among residents and businesses that the complex challenges facing our area do not stop at city or county lines. Our constituents understand that mayors must

work together on a broad spectrum of issues to ensure that investments in infrastructure, community development, and social services are aligned with their expectations. I will step down from my position as your president with great appreciation of GNRC’s role in building partnerships that have led to positive, tangible outcomes for our communities. As you flip through the pages of this annual report, I know you will be equally impressed by the scope of work and the broad reach of our organization. GNRC has built a solid foundation for its future and continues to increase its capacity to provide programs and services that are vital to the success of the region. It has been my privilege to serve as your president. I thank you for your trust. I have high confidence in the future of GNRC and the benefits that this organization will continue to provide for our cities and counties.

Respectfully,

Paige Brown Mayor, City of Gallatin President, Greater Nashville Regional Council

AGENCY MILESTONES

Throughout GNRC’s 57-year history, the organization has seen major changes in its structure at three significant points in time. The most recent chapter began in 2017 as area mayors took steps to improve regional coordination, align infrastructure planning with economic development initiatives, and bring Middle Tennessee in line with the state of practice in peer regions across the nation.

2017

1984

The Executive Board of the Nashville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization voted to integrate its staff and programming into GNRC. This action provided an opportunity for Middle Tennessee partners to establish a more streamlined approach to regional coordination and to better leverage state and federal programs to address issues related to growth and development.

1965

The Tennessee General Assembly passed enabling legislation to create the Greater Nashville Regional Council by consolidating the Mid- Cumberland Development District and the Mid-Cumberland Council of Governments. GNRC was empowered with additional duties and authority to develop plans to address the rapidly growing mid-state area.

The Tennessee General Assembly established the

Mid-Cumberland Development District as one of nine regional districts via the “Development District Act of 1965.” This act created the predecessor agency of GNRC to provide a means for cities and counties across northern Middle Tennessee to carry out general

planning and economic development activities.

2022 GNRC restructured its annual meeting calendar and retooled its monthly meeting agenda to help improve board and committee effectiveness and ensure efficient gatherings of its members. GNRC also issued a Request for Proposals to hire a team of advisors to help develop a new center for regional collaboration. This space will host regional meetings and serve as the long-term headquarters for the organization and non-profit partners.

2020 GNRC began to overhaul its technology platforms, HR and accounting software, and internal controls to modernize its information technology and financial management systems to improve the organization’s efficiency and bolster its budgeting and fiscal capabilities. GNRC launched a new volunteer platform to connect Middle Tennesseans with the work of the Council and its partner agencies.

2018 GNRC reorganized its staffing into one of three major departments of activity including, Aging and Disability Services, Community and

Regional Planning, and Economic Community

Development, and established new support teams - research and analytics, policy and government affairs, and communications and marketing. GNRC also launched its new website, brand identity, and the tagline “Connecting Communities, Empowering People.”

2021 GNRC hired its first Outreach and Advocacy Coordinator to strengthen existing relationships and establish new partnerships in support of its Aging and Disability programs and services. The GNRC Transportation Policy Board adopted a new $10.5 billion transportation plan for the multi- county Nashville metropolitan planning area.

2019 GNRC launched a training

program and released the first edition of the “Member Resource Guide” to inform and empower local government leaders. GNRC published an interactive open data portal to disseminate and share important information and maps about Middle Tennessee’s

A NEW ERA FOR GNRC Significant highlights over the five years since the GNRC’s integration of the Nashville Area MPO program.

socioeconomic trends and infrastructure conditions.

ABOUT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL

The Tennessee General Assembly established the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) under the Tennessee Development District Act of 1965. GNRC operates as a council of governments representing a thirteen-county area that includes Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson counties. 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 facilitates cooperative policy-making and collaboration among local and state elected leaders to prioritize investments in social services and public infrastructure.

Photo: GNRC Executive Board Meeting

We are a regional forum for policy-makers.

OUR MISSION The mission of the Greater Nashville Regional Council is to assist local communities and state agencies in the development of 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 policy-making 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.

CORE VALUES

Community Focused GNRC responds to the grassroots needs of communities on a local and regional level, developing solutions and creating opportunities to meet those needs head-on. Strategic GNRC thoughtfully and responsibly develops plans and programs that are custom tailored and grounded in information and analysis. Collaborative GNRC fosters collaboration among its local and state partners to identify and accelerate investments into Middle Tennessee communities. Comprehensive GNRC provides comprehensive expertise and resources to ensure citizens and leaders stay connected with information, and a wide variety of programs and services.

WHO WE REPRESENT

The Greater Nashville Regional Council is one of nine development districts established by the Tennessee General Assembly. The Council is governed by mayors and county executives, state legislators, appointed representatives of business, and appointed representatives of social equity and inclusion.

Learn more about State Development Districts at TNDistricts.org

13 COUNTIES

CITIES AND TOWNS 52 93 COUNCIL MEMBERS

MIDDLE TENNESSEANS 2M+

MAJOR PROGRAMS

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, and serves as a member of the Clarksville Urbanized Area MPO and the Middle Tennessee Rural Planning Organization. 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. GNRC staffs the Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation (MADC) which administers a variety of lending programs available to small businesses, including the SBA 504 program through the U.S. Small Business Administration. GNRC staffs the Middle Tennessee Tourism Council, which provides tourism marketing support and other promotional activities to its membership, comprised of chambers of commerce, area attractions, local governments, and convention and visitor bureaus.

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. GNRC is designated by the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability 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 to function 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. GNRC convenes the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus to support regional collaboration around the development of legislative priorities.

State Route 109 over the Cumberland River connecting Wilson and Sumner Counties

WE ARE CITIES AND COUNTIES WORKING TOGETHER.

GNRC is a regional policy-making body made up of local and state government officials tasked with working together to make Middle Tennessee a better place to call home.

REGIONAL COUNCIL LEADERSHIP

PRESIDENT

EXECUTIVE BOARD

MAYOR PAIGE BROWN City of Gallatin

A 24-member Executive Board meets monthly to conduct business on behalf of the full Regional Council. The current membership of the Executive Board is defined by state law and includes the council officers, a small city representative, a large city representative, two state legislators, a city or county representative from each of GNRC’s counties, and the minority representatives from the four counties within GNRC with the highest minority populations. In addition to the Executive Board, the GNRC programs are supported by various boards and committees, including the Aging Advisory Council, the Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation, the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus, the Middle Tennessee Tourism Council, and the Transportation Policy Board.

VICE PRESIDENT

MAYOR BOB RIAL Dickson County

TREASURER

MAYOR JOE PITTS City of Clarksville

SECRETARY

MICHAEL SKIPPER Executive Director

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

MAYOR ANTHONY HOLT Sumner County

WE BUILD RELATIONSHIPS TO SOLVE REGIONAL ISSUES.

GNRC’s Committees and Roundtables meet regularly to discuss regional issues and work together to develop successful strategies to overcome issues in our communities.

COMMITTEE AND PROGRAM LEADERSHIP

Aging and Disability Advisory Committee

Transportation Policy Board

Billy Vogle, Chair Robertson County Mayor

Don Ames, Chair Representing Sumner County

Chaz Molder, Vice Chair City of Columbia Mayo r

Monroe Gildersleeve, Vice Chair Representing Montgomery County

Transportation Coordinating Committee

Economic Development Advisory Committee

Glenn Harper, Chair City of Columbia Engineer

Jim Durrett, Chair Montgomery County Mayor

Andy Barlow, Vice Chair City of Mt. Juliet Public Works Director

I.T. Directors Roundtable

Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation

Keith Durbin, Co-Chair Metro Nashville, Chief Information Officer

Mark Beeler, President Representing Trousdale County

Cody York, Co-Chair Rutherford County, Chief Information Officer

Scott Bagwell, Vice-President Representing Robertson County

Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus

Jerome Terrell, Secretary/Treasurer Representing Cheatham County

Ken Moore, Chair Mayor of Franklin

Jessie Wallace, Vice Chair Humphreys County Executive

Roster as of August 2022

REGIONAL COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP

CHEATHAM COUNTY County Mayor Kerry McCarver Ashland City Mayor Steve Allen* Ashland City Mayor J.T. Smith** Kingston Springs Mayor Tony Gross Pegram Mayor John Louallen Pleasant View Mayor Bill Anderson Hadley Williams, Social Equity Rep. Jerome Terrell, Business Rep. DAVIDSON COUNTY Metropolitan Mayor John Cooper Belle Meade Mayor James Hunt, Sr. Berry Hill Mayor Dennis Shefield Forest Hills Mayor Lanson Hyde Goodlettsville Mayor Rusty Tinnin Oak Hill Mayor Dale Grimes Antoinette Lee, Social Equity Rep. Courtney Pogue, Business Rep.

HOUSTON COUNTY County Mayor James Bridges* County Mayor Joey Brake** Erin Mayor Paul Bailey Tennessee Ridge Mayor Stony Odom Minority Rep [To Be Appointed] Howard Spurgeon, Business Rep. HUMPHREYS COUNTY Executive Jessie Wallace* 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 County Mayor Jim Durrett* County Mayor Wes Golden** Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts Rene Llanos, Social Equity Rep. Buck Dellinger, Business Rep. ROBERTSON COUNTY County Mayor Billy Vogle Adams Mayor Wayne Evans Cedar Hill Mayor Tom Richards Coopertown Mayor Becca Werner Cross Plains Mayor Barry Faulkner Greenbrier Mayor Lanny Adcock Orlinda Mayor Alfred Brickles Ridgetop Mayor Clayton Bollinger

Springfield Mayor Ann Schneider White House Mayor Farris Bibb Herbert Barbee, Social Equity Rep. Margot Fosnes, Business Rep. RUTHERFORD COUNTY County Mayor Bill Ketron* County Mayor Joe Carr** Eagleville Mayor Chad Leeman LaVergne Mayor Jason Cole Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed Darlyn Green, Social Equity Rep. Patrick Cammack, Business Rep. STEWART COUNTY County Mayor Robin Brandon* County Mayor Robert Beecham** Cumberland City Mayor Gary Vaughn Dover Mayor Lesa Fitzhugh David Dunlap, Social Equity Rep. Business Rep.[To Be Appointed]

DICKSON COUNTY County Mayor Bob Rial Burns Mayor Landon Mathis

SUMNER COUNTY County Mayor Anthony Holt* County Mayor John Isbell** Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown

Charlotte Mayor William R. Davis* Charlotte Mayor Garland Breeded** Dickson Mayor Don L. Weiss, Jr. Slayden Mayor Diane Zwingle Harrison Vanleer Mayor Jason Weaver White Bluff Mayor Linda Hayes Dwight Haynes, Social Equity Rep. Darrell James, Business Rep.

Goodlettsville Mayor Rusty Tinnin Hendersonville Mayor Jamie Clary Millersville Mayor David Gregory Mitchellville Mayor Bobby Worman Portland Mayor Mike Callis Westmoreland Mayor James Brian Smalling

WILSON COUNTY County Mayor Randall Hutto Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell

The Regional Council governing body is made up of 93 members. It includes 13 county mayors and executives, 52 mayors of cities or towns, two members of the Tennessee General Assembly, and 26 appointments representing the interests of the business community and minority populations. The full Council is charged with electing officers, certifying the executive board, and adopting the annual work program and budget.

White House Mayor Farris Bibb Lynn Bowles, Social Equity Rep. Jimmy Johnston, Business Rep. TROUSDALE COUNTY County Mayor Stephen Chambers* County Mayor Jack McCall** Mae Wright, Social Equity Rep. Charly Lyons, Business Rep. WILLIAMSON COUNTY County Mayor Rogers Anderson Brentwood Mayor Rhea Little Fairview Mayor Debby Rainey Franklin Mayor Ken Moore Nolensville Mayor Derek Adams Spring Hill Mayor Jim Hagaman Thompson’s Station Mayor Corey Napier Juanita Patton, Social Equity Rep. Kel McDowell, Business Rep.

Mount Juliet Mayor James Maness Watertown Mayor Michael Jennings Patrick Johnson, Social Equity Rep. G.C. Hixson, Business Rep. TENNESSEE GENERAL ASSEMBLY Representative Susan Lynn Senator to be appointed

*outgoing **incoming Members listed in orange serve on the Executive Board Regional Council roster as of August 2022

WE ARE EXPERTS, PROFESSIONALS AND PUBLIC SERVANTS.

GNRC staff support the activities of the Regional Council and provide additional capacity to state agencies and local governments working to improve quality of life.

AGENCY PROGRAMS AND PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Executive Office and Administrative Support Michael Skipper, Executive Director Michelle Lacewell, Deputy Director Kristen Scuderi, Special Projects Manager Rebecca Nofi, Volunteer & Community Engagement Manager Rachel Solava, Outreach and Advocacy Coordinator Shannon Lewallen, Creative Services Manager Cole Dugan, Graphic Designer

Policy and Government Affairs Peter Westerholm, Policy Director Shelly Hazle, Senior Policy Advisor

Research and Analytics Max Baker, Research Director

Ashleigh Glasscock, Senior Research Analyst Haryono Prawiranata, Senior Research Analyst Joanna McCall, Senior Research Analyst Samuel Williams, Research Analys t

HR and Office Support Amanda Evilcizer, Human Resources Manager Angie Hutchison, Office Manager Lou Edwards, Senior Administrative Assistant Sherry Cosby, Administrative Assistant Angela Roupe, Administrative Assistant

“

Legal Department Candi Henry, Chief Legal Counsel Grant Kehler, Compliance Officer Finance Department Megan Nelson, Finance Director Jovia King, Finance Manager Dorothy Olszewski, Finance Officer Jay Porter, Finance Officer

The passion of GNRC staff and their contribution to each of our communities is amazing.

Mayor Paige Brown, 2021 Annual Business Meeting

Roster as of August 2022

Aging and Disability Services

Community and Regional Planning

Sara Fowler, Director of Aging and Disability Programs

Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Regional Planning

Aging and Disability Support April Merritts, Aging Support Specialist Ruth Childers, Aging Support Specialist

Anna Emerson, Principal Planner Amanda Harrington, Principal Planner Sean Pfalzer, Transportation Planning Manager Carson Cooper, Senior Planner Daniel Capparella, Associate Planner Kealan Millies Lucke, Associate Planner Samuel Braverman, Department Intern

Quality Assurance and Monitoring Marilyn Wade, Program Manager Jennifer Meade, Quality Assurance Analyst Christy Earheart, Quality Assurance Analyst Medicare Counseling (SHIP) Christine Mather, Senior Medicare Counselor Shea Northfield, Associate Counselor

Economic and Community Development

Michael Mills, Director of Economic and Community Development

Rasheedah Pardue, Community Development Programs Manager James Dean, Housing Coordinator

Data Management Cynthia Balfour, Program Manager Linda Murphy-Esmond, Data Processor

Amy Napoli, Senior Grant Administrator Gwen Schaefer, Small Business Lending Rhonda Smith, Small Business Lending

Family Caregiver Support Johnna Neel, Lead Counselor

L-R: Jessica Hill, Hary Prawiranata, Max Baker, Matt Von Lunen, Sean Pfalzer

Information and Assistance Diane Schlaufman, Program Manager Mark Singer, Lead Counselor Alexandra Ciampoli, Counselor Eula Hendricks, Counselor Vonda Jenkins, Counselor Jessica Rame, Counselor Carole Russell-Griffin, Counselor TennCare CHOICES Intake Program Fredna Neas Hodge, Program Manager Misty Donaldson, Senior Counselor Venus Johnson, Lead Counselor Lisa Brooks, Financial Coordinator Melody Choate, Counselor Kara Tillery, Counselor

Service Coordination/Options Program Earlean Chenault, Program Manager Pamela Williamson, Lead Counselor

Deborah Carson, Counselor Faye Head, Senior Counselor Breanna Browder, Counselor Amber Spencer, Counselor Jenny Calvillo, Counselor Tammy Cooper, Counselor Illisa Gay, Counselor

Tonya Johnson-Lee, Counselor Jacqueline Smith, Counselor Quenteena Baldwin-Jarrett, Counselor

Public Guardianship Keisha Harris, Public Conservator Susan Gilliam, Assistant Public Conservator

Josh Richardson, Counselor Amber Spencer, Counselor Margaret Wolf, Counselor Janie Jewell, Counselor

Veterans’ Support Services Anthony Anderson, Senior Counselor

L-R: Janie Jewell, Amber Spencer, Venus Johnson, Meg Wolf, Josh Richardson, Kara Tillery, Misty Donaldson

ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Partnerships and Programs

Carolina Planning Journal GNRC’s recent work analyzing crash data to define risks for non-motorized users of the transportation network was published in the 2022 Carolina Planning Journal. The crash data assessment was conducted during the development of the Regional Transportation Plan and showcases the strength of collaboration between GNRC’s planning and research teams. Golden Cone Award GNRC received a Golden Cone Award from the Civic Design Center for its 2021 Parking Day parklet exhibit. Golden Cone Awards are presented to outstanding parklets that uniquely capture the spirit and purpose of Parking Day, re-imagining public spaces currently used for car storage to creative, engaging, and welcoming spaces for people. Recognized for the “Most Engaging” parklet, GNRC’s display featured educational displays around shared mobility, and data visualization games around population, housing, and the environment. Letter Writing Campaign In 2020 GNRC began a letter-writing campaign to keep volunteers engaged during the Pandemic and create much-needed social connections for older adults and disabled individuals in nursing homes and assisted living facilities across Middle Tennessee. Since the letter-writing campaign started, volunteers have sent 50,924 letters and pieces of artwork. This campaign has also created an opportunity for broader community engagement through corporate participation in GNRC’s volunteer programs as team-building activities.

SeniorTrust Digital Literacy and Inclusion Grant GNRC was awarded nearly $100,000 from the West End Home Foundation to launch a new program to increase digital literacy for older adults. In partnership with senior centers, the program will provide training and access to technology so older adults can maintain their independence, access services, and stay connected to family and friends . Clean Water Act – Watershed Program TN Department of Environment and Conservation awarded GNRC a grant to develop watershed-based plans in partnership with the Cumberland River Compact for the East Camp Creek Watershed in Sumner County and the East Fork Stones River Bear Branch in Rutherford County. The funding is from section 604b of the Clean Water Act. Watershed-based plans are reviewed and approved by the TN Dept of Agriculture, which administers the Section 319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Program on behalf of the EPA . Project Delivery Taskforce GNRC created a regional task force to help identify obstacles to the timely obligation of federal transportation funding and to work with TDOT to find ways to move projects forward more quickly. Members of the task force include mayors, planners, engineers, and TDOT managers who have a role in implementing projects.

Carolina Planning Journal

Research Analyst, Ashleigh Glasscock and Associate Planner, Daniel Capparella proudly hold up GNRC’s article in the Carolina Planning Journal.

Golden Cone Award

GNRC was recognized for having the ‘most engaging’ parklet at Nashville Civic Design Center’s Annual Parking Day. Policy Director, Peter Westerholm, his son, Porter, and daughter, Ava, graciously accepted the Golden Cone Award on behalf of the organization.

REGIONAL IMPACT

In the fiscal year 2022, GNRC leveraged its $21.1 million budget to improve the lives of thousands of Middle Tennesseans through its programs and services. This map depicts the location of grants and infrastructure investments, planning assistance, and aging and disability services administered by GNRC during the fiscal year. The following section highlights the major accomplishments of each program area. The map series on the following pages depicts the local impact of specific program areas within GNRC.

Maury County is a member of the South Central Tennessee Development District but participates in various programs and activities of the Greater Nashville Regional Council.

AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES Serving as the Area Agency on Aging and Disability for thirteen counties, GNRC plans and coordinates a range of programs and services which focus on improving 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. PROGRAM REACH CLIENTS + BENEFICIARIES

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.

ECD Grant Assistance Home Repair Grants Arts Grants Tourism Grants Small Business Loans

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.

AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES

AREA PLAN ON AGING AND DISABILITY Throughout FY22 the Aging and Disability Services team facilitated the development of the four-year update to the region’s Area Plan on Aging and Disability. This process fulfills the shared responsibility of mayors and state officials to cooperatively develop a plan to prioritize federal funds made available through the Older Americans Act and the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability to address the needs of older adults and to coordinate the implementation of a range of services to support aging Middle Tennesseans and their caregivers. Through the Plan’s development GNRC assesses the impact of the region’s aging population and is positioned to improve how investments in aging and disability services are coordinated with other state and federal planning processes.

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. To accomplish this, the Aging and Disability Services Department coordinates the delivery of services and programs which promote an environment conducive to enhancing the quality of life of the region’s older population. GNRC’s team has an in-depth understanding of eligibility requirements for the various services available and can evaluate all the options that are best for each client. Depending on age, needs, and income, many of the services may be available at little or no cost.

Learn more about the Area Plan on Aging and Disability at GNRC.org/AgingAreaPlan.

Photo: GNRC’s staff members, Candi Henry and Christine Mather at the Wilson County Fair promoting Medicare counseling services and resources.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

INFORMATION + ASSISTANCE GNRC’s Information and Assistance Helpline offers easy access to information about resources available in the region for various needs and challenges faced by older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers . 5000+ Individuals received meals through program partners MEAL PROGRAMS Through nutrition programs, GNRC provides balanced meals to older adults with nutritional risks. These meals are delivered to individuals’ homes by trained volunteers or shared among peers in congregate settings .

LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES Through TennCare’s CHOICES program, GNRC assists individuals with the supports they need to remain in their homes.

1000+ Individuals assisted through the CHOICES intake process

CAREGIVER SUPPORT The National Family Caregiver Support Program focuses on preventing burn-out and social isolation for caregivers of older adults through respite services.

250+ Caregivers received respite support

48 Veterans received services and assistance from loved ones or family friends PUBLIC GUARDIANSHIP Public conservators are appointed by the courts to provide conservatorship to individuals who cannot safely make their own decisions regarding their person and/or property. VETERANS SERVICES GNRC facilitates access to sources of income for caregivers of veterans and for other supportive services. This program is offered in partnership with the Pennyrile Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living, and the Veterans Administration.

7600+

Middle Tennesseans received information or screening services

25,000+ Individuals received MEDICARE COUNSELING GNRC provides Medicare beneficiaries with the resources they need to make informed decisions about Medicare that optimize their access to care and benefits through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (TNSHIP) . KEY PARTNERSHIPS In partnership with Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency, Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, The assistance with Medicare Cumberland’s, and Metropolitan Social Services, GNRC funds transportation, legal, and ombudsman services for older adults and adults with physical disabilities. In addition, seventeen senior centers throughout the region receive funding to support additional programming and services for older adults.

Individuals received conservatorship services

IN-HOME SERVICES The Options for Community Living program provides a connection to services that assist older adults and adults with physical disabilities with everyday activities . 1700+ Individuals received in-home services

1400+

Individuals received services through these partnerships

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY In December 2021, GNRC adopted an update to the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). This process fulfills the shared responsibility of Mayors, business leaders, and state officials to cooperatively develop a strategy to align policy and infrastructure investments with the region’s shared vision for economic growth. The CEDS pulls together the economic development goals and priorities of local jurisdictions and strategies of regional entities to craft a document presents a shared vision and makes us more competitive for federal and state funding for economic 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 make investments in initiatives that increase economic prosperity and improve the quality of life throughout the region. Through the programs of the Economic and Community Development Department, GNRC provides a range of services to assist communities in increasing economic prosperity and improving quality of life, such as affordable housing preservation, industrial development, infrastructure improvements, job creation, tourism development, and workforce development.

Learn more about the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy at GNRC.org/CEDS.

Photo: GNRC’s Ashleigh Glasscock presenting to the ECD Advisory Committee during the development of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

GRANT WRITING + ADMINISTRATION GNRC assists communities with planning, packaging applications and managing grants to address community needs. Support includes structuring the application, organizing target area surveys, holding public hearings, and completing the full application.

HOUSING RESOURCES GNRC administers home repair programs benefiting low-income families, older adults, and persons with disabilities with funds from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency. FIVE Low-income homeowners received repairs to their homes

$51M

Value of completed and on-going projects administered by GNRC

SMALL BUSINESS LENDING The Mid-Cumberland Area Development Corporation (MADC) was established by GNRC as a non-profit corporation to serve the capital needs of small businesses in Middle Tennessee. GNRC staffs the program as part of its economic and community development programs.

ARTS + CREATIVE PLACEMAKING GNRC is the designated agency to facilitate the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Arts Builds Communities grant program across eligible counties. This program supports local governments and charitable organizations to broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life . $41,970 awarded to support local arts projects across Middle Tennessee

$33M

Value of current portfolio that has helped create or retain more than 632 jobs

RURAL TOURISM GNRC supports growing tourism revenue for rural counties through its work with the Middle Tennessee Tourism Council. These programs provide access to state and federal grant programs and improve coordination among local governments and industry partners. $74K spent by local communities to support tourism activities through GNRC’s grant program

KEY PARTNERSHIPS The TN Department of Economic and Community

Development launched the Child Care Creation Grant Program using CDBG-CV funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in early 2021. The program will help expand childcare capacity within Tennessee communities. Nearly $1 million was allotted for Middle Tennessee of the $9 million made available statewide. GNRC is responsible for administering a competitive grant process for these funds. The Economic and Community Development team developed the program and hosted informational sessions for local governments in March 2022. In the coming next year, GNRC will work with local governments to deploy grant funding to physically expand selected childcare facilities to serve more families.

COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL PLANNING

PROJECT DELIVERY TASK FORCE In September 2021, GNRC established a Transportation Project Delivery Task Force made up local elected officials, planners, engineers, and TDOT leadership. The Task Force presented its initial findings in April 2022, outlining common obstacles and challenges experienced by local agencies as they work to implement roadway or transit improvements within their communities. The group’s goal is to work with TDOT to identify opportunities to speed up the typical timelines associated with delivering transportation projects. This convening represents a novel approach to problem- solving by bringing elected officials and practitioners together in a singular forum to share experiences, understand issues, and brainstorm solutions.

The Community and Regional Planning team at GNRC plays a vital role in shaping the future of Middle Tennessee. Its programs and services operate on both a multi-county, regional scale, and the neighborhood level. At the local level, GNRC serves as contract staff to planning commissions and boards of zoning appeals for municipal and county governments in need of additional staffing capacity. In addition, GNRC is available to provide professional planning consulting services to communities interested in updating local plans and ordinances. At the regional level, GNRC provides professional staffing to support regional transportation planning and solid waste master planning. In recent years, the planning team has increased its support for other planning initiatives around environmental quality and capital investments programming.

Photo: GNRC staff facilitate table mapping exercises with members of Rutherford County Planning Commission as part of the County’s comprehensive plan update.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

ADA TRANSITION PLANS GNRC completed Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Robertson and Houston Counties which helps ensure compliance with ADA requirements and eligibility for federal funds .

TRANSPORTATION PLANNING Over the last year, through GNRC’s Transportation Improvement Program the agency assisted local communities with the planning and implementation of improvements to the area’s transportation system.

$8M

More than $8 million in COVID Relief funding to communities in the region for ADA upgrades, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and ITS improvements

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS GNRC works with local governments to identify and track upgrades or expansions to area schools, transportation systems, government buildings, and other public infrastructure.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANS Many local governments across the region have a “Comprehensive Plan” that establishes an overall vision for the community and guides local decisions related to land use, economic development, housing, transportation, historic preservation, and more. In recent years, municipal and county governments have turned to GNRC to help update those plans. In FY22, GNRC was hired as a planning consultant by local governments in Rutherford County, Sumner County, and Wilson County to conduct community engagement, analyze emerging trends, and pursue opportunities for state and federal grants to aid in their plan’s implementation.

$10B

Nearly 3,000 projects totaling more than $10 billion in infrastructure needs in the region were identified.

LOCAL PLANNING SUPPORT GNRC provides fee-based services to municipal and county governments that need support for local planning functions. Through these contracts, GNRC staffs local planning commissions and zoning appeals boards. In FY22 GNRC supported the following communities with on-call planning assistance: • Town of Burns • City of Charlotte • Town of Coopertown • City of Dickson • Dickson County • Town of Dover • Metropolitan Hartsville-Trousdale County • Humphreys County

ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY In FY22, GNRC began developing a framework for a Regional Conservation Strategy with the help of the Environmental Roundtable. he Strategy will identify key regional issues and trends, threats and risks, priorities, and provide strategies and recommendations to mitigate impacts, conserve environmental quality, and prepare for future environmental challenges. The Strategy will help strengthen the relationship between the environmental review process and GNRC’s planning and programming activities .

• City of McEwen • City of Portland • City of Ridgetop

• City of Westmoreland • Town of White Bluff

RESEARCH AND ANALYTICS

HARNESSING BIG DATA

The Research and Analytics team is responsible for maintaining information and datasets, creating maps and other data visualizations, and performing analysis in support of the organization’s programs and local member data needs. PYTHON SCRIPTING AND AUTOMATION Over the last year, GNRC’s research team has developed a powerful programming script to automate data collection and management. This new tool will save significant time over the prior method of manually downloading files from multiple public data sources and will increase data integrity by minimizing human error. The efficiency will allow the team to be more responsive to member requests for data and analytics. HISTORIC LAND COVER GNRC’s research team has prepared new analyses of the trends in regional coverage for tree canopy, farmland, and impervious surface over the last 25 years. Developing an in-house methodology, the team has converted historical information from the National Land Cover Database into comparable data sets to assess the loss of tree canopy and ag land, and the gains in impervious surface since 2001. The analysis is a major step in forecasting future changes across the landscape to help communities understand the impacts of growth on environmental quality, stormwater management, and the ag economy.

One of the biggest challenges facing the research team is processing sizable complex data sets, or Big Data, beyond traditional processing techniques. Big Data’s value is its ability to improve analytics which reveals hidden patterns or relationships beyond GNRC’s traditional modeling and data analysis processes. Over the last year, the Research and Analytics team has been assessing the impacts the expansion of data set sizes will have on computing resources and how current data sources will enhance the development of the Regional Council’s products.

Data in the Community

Wilson County residents participated in an open house event to update the county’s comprehensive plan. Created by the Research and Analytics

team, these posters communicated the

changes experienced in the county over the last two decades.

A Collaborative Effort

Rachel Solava presented an overview of “The State of Aging in Middle Tennessee” during the West End Home Foundation’s annual summit. The Research and Analytics team worked with members of the Aging and Disability Services Department to develop the content for the presentation.

POLICY AND GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

MAYORS CAUCUS

The Policy and Government Affairs team supports the organization by participating in various local, statewide, and national initiatives being carried out by public agencies and non-profit organizations.

Legislative issues for the GNRC area are discussed and prioritized by the Mayors Caucus. The Caucus was formed in 2009 to provide leadership on important issues facing a rapidly changing regional landscape. Transportation, and particularly the pursuit of a modern regional transit system, served as the early catalyst, but in its brief history the Caucus has served as an effective forum for building personal relationships among mayors and has helped local governments support each other on state and federal legislative priorities.

During FY2022, GNRC’s policy team provided support to three strategic regional partners.

CUMBERLAND REGION TOMORROW CRT is dedicated to advocating for quality growth across the area. 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. TRANSIT ALLIANCE OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE The Transit Alliance works with community officials and regional leaders to build support for funding transit in Middle Tennessee. GNRC assisted the board of directors updating its strategic plan as it looks to position the organization for the future. NASHVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GNRC and the Nashville Area Chamber co-produced the 9th annual edition of Nashville Region’s Vital Signs. The report highlights issues impacting Middle Tennessee’s economic well- being and quality of life, serving as a resource for community leaders charged with developing regional solutions.

The Caucus is staffed by GNRC with consulting assistance provided by Stones River Group.

LEADERSHIP

Chairman Mayor Ken Moore, City of Franklin

Vice Chairman County Executive Wallace, Humphreys County

A Time for Reflection

Mayor Ken Moore speaks during the a legislative reception co-hosted by the Nashville CVC and GNRC alongside Trousdale County Mayor Stephen Chambers, Metro Nashville Mayor John Cooper, Sumner County Mayor Anthony Holt, Montgomery County Mayor Jim Durrett, and City of Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown.

In The Community

GNRC staff attend the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting. L-R: Rachel Solava, Candi Henry, Sara Fowler, Amanda Evilcizer, Megan Nelson, Max Baker, Jessica Hill, and Angie Hutchison.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Opportunities to volunteer with GNRC spans across all departments. Highlights of volunteer contributions to support agency programs include: • Friendly visitors spent 266 hours with Public Guardianship clients. • Medicare volunteers counseled 7,288 beneficiaries on Medicare, answering questions, providing plan comparisons, helping with plan enrollment or assistance to lower income programs. Volunteer Medicare Counselors gave 9,935.63 hours to the program to make this level of support to the community possible. • Volunteers spent 242 hours offering their photography, graphic design, marketing, and administrative skills to support outreach. • Volunteers spent 39 hours reviewing Arts Build Community Grant Applications and provided award recommendations to the Tennessee Arts Commission. • A skilled volunteer spent 18 hours with assessment of ADA compliance in Robertson and Houston County facilities.

Volunteers are an essential part of GNRC’s work in communities across the region. Since 2018 the agency has focused on increasing its volunteer recruitment and opportunities for engagement. The volunteers build capacity to extend the impact of the agency’s programs and services across the region. Individuals, companies, and universities across Middle Tennessee participate in volunteer opportunities GNRC and its partners provide.

Total active volunteers in FY2022 769

Total number of volunteer hours in FY2022. 18K+

Value of volunteer time contributed to GNRC in FY2022. $546K

ANNUAL VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION

In April, during National Volunteer Month, GNRC held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration to recognize the significant contributions volunteers have made to the agency’s programs.

2022 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Commitment to Excellence Award The Commitment to Excellence Award recognizes outstanding volunteers who are providing their services with attention to detail, always consistent in their performance and willing to help with whatever serves the mission. This award was presented to Jennie Czarnik, June Nicdao, Rachel Gauger, and Victoria Knab. Silver Heart Award The Silver Heart Award recognizes volunteers who are especially caring about other community members and serve for the greater good or a specific cause. This award was presented to Patricia Cronin and Shaina Binu. Golden Heart Award The Golden Heart Award recognizes volunteers who have given a significant amount of time to serve their community and/or undeserved groups within it. This award was presented to Ray Daws and Mary Bryan.

Volunteer of the Year Award Thomas Wrenne

Mentor of the Year Award Nancy Parker

Most Engaged New Volunteer Award Robert Nardini and James Burks

Outstanding Team Awards Belmont University, HCA Healthcare, and Sarah Cannon, The Predators Foundation

Photo: Artwork from volunteers and GNRC staff holding up blankets made by a volunteer for guardianship clients. L-R: Tammy Cooper, Faye Head, and Keisha Harris

WE ARE PURPOSEFUL AND STRIVE TO DO MORE WITH LIMITED RESOURCES.

GNRC’s funding partners make its work possible. The agency’s operating budget is made up of federal and state grants, membership dues, and program revenue.

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

COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL PLANNING

AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES

ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Federal Grants State Funds

Member Dues Program Revenue

Federal Grants State Funds

Member Dues Program Revenue

Federal Grants State Funds

Member Dues Program Revenue

FUNDING PARTNERS

State Partners

Federal Partners

Tennessee Arts Commission Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability Department of Economic and Community Development Department of Environment and Conservation Department of Finance Bureau of TennCare Department of Tourist Development Department of Transportation Tennessee Advisory Council on Intergovernmental Relations Tennessee Historical Commission Tennessee Housing Development Agency

Department of Agriculture Department of Commerce Department of Health and Human Services Department of Housing and Urban Development Department of the Interior

Department of Transportation Small Business Administration

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