From Mike Walker:

As a longtime resident of Brentwood and former City Manager from 1990-2013, I have always been proud of our community’s thoughtful leadership and commitment to conservative fiscal management. After retirement, my wife Linda and I chose to remain here because we cherish Brentwood’s high quality of life and responsible governance.

Historically, Brentwood’s City Commission has focused on providing essential basic services well and avoiding unnecessary duplication with Williamson County. This approach recognized that our citizens are also County taxpayers, and it ensured the efficient use of local funds. However, in recent years, I have grown increasingly concerned about the direction taken by the current majority on the 7-member City Commission.

A key responsibility of the commission is determining how your tax dollars are spent, particularly on major capital projects. One such project currently under consideration is the construction of a City-owned indoor tennis center at an estimated cost of up to $18 million. The facility would be privately operated with limited City oversight. While I support recreational opportunities for our residents, I question the wisdom of spending this large amount, whether from the City’s fund balance (savings account) and/or through the issuance of long-term bonds, for a facility with limited community benefit. Especially given current economic uncertainty in America today, I believe these funds could be better kept in reserve but if needed for infrastructure improvements, spent on roads and other improvements that benefit all residents.

More troubling is the fact that the City Commission majority dismissed a potential partnership with Williamson County that would have covered half of the construction cost plus assumed ALL operating cost moving forward. The County has experience operating such facilities and this arrangement would have significantly reduced Brentwood taxpayers’ financial exposure. It would have been a win-win for Brentwood taxpayers. Instead, City residents are now being asked to shoulder 100% of the cost and risk.

Part of the justification for going alone with the tennis facility is that it will generate a positive net income for the City. When financial studies indicate a government funded facility will be a money-maker, be suspicious. If it is so profitable, why doesn’t the private sector undertake the investment?

Additionally, a proposal by Commissioner Anne Dunn to allow the voters to decide the matter through a referendum during the May 2025 election was rejected by the majority. Despite assurances from the City Attorney that such a vote was legal, the majority claimed it was illegal to vote or too early to do so. This decision raises questions not just about fiscal priorities, but also about their lack of trust in your judgment in making important decisions.

Fortunately, we have an opportunity to refocus our priorities in the upcoming City Commission election. I encourage voters to consider three highly qualified candidates who I have known for over 30 years: Commissioner Rhea Little and challengers Dr. Janet Donahue and Kim Smithson Gawrys. These individuals have demonstrated integrity, fiscal responsibility, and a deep commitment to preserving the values that make Brentwood special. They are not beholden to special interests and will put the needs of taxpayers first.

You can learn more about their platforms and priorities at the following websites:

• Dr. Janet Donahue – www.DonahueForBrentwood.com
• Kim Smithson Gawrys – www.kimsmithsongawrys.com
• Rhea Little – www.rhealittle.com

Election Day is Tuesday, May 6, 2025 with voting at the Brentwood Library and Brenthaven Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Early voting runs from April 24 to May 1 at the Library. I encourage every resident to vote and make your voice heard.

Brentwood has a proud tradition of responsible governance. Let’s keep it that way.

Sincerely,

Michael (Mike) Walker, former City Manager