Public Meetings - Germantown, Tennessee

The Germantown Planning Commission met on April 7, 2026, to consider one major agenda item: a request from Wilder Germantown Development, Inc. to convert public streets, street lights, and drainage infrastructure to private ownership within the Wilder Planned Unit Development (PUD), a 73-lot, 38.65-acre single-family subdivision located east of Forest Hill-Irene Road, south of Poplar Pike. The applicant also sought to replace a previously planned 1.4-acre parkland dedication (0.5 acres mandated plus 0.9 acres voluntarily donated) with a cash fee-in-lieu of approximately $9,437, based on a 2021 valuation. Following discussion, the Commission approved the conversion 6-1, with conditions. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the March 3, 2026 Planning Commission meeting were approved by roll call vote (6 yes, 1 abstention – Commissioner Clark abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke for or against the agenda item during the public hearing portion. Discussion Items - Wilder PUD Street Conversion (Case 20-006): - Staff (Ms. Gorileschi) presented the request: convert public streets, street lights, and drainage to private, with water and sewer remaining public. Two gated entrances proposed: the northern entrance with a call box and turnaround (meeting policy), and the southern entrance requested as residents-only without call box/turnaround (policy exception). The developer also requested to withdraw the previously committed 1.4-acre parkland dedication (0.5 acres mandated plus 0.9 acres donated) and instead pay the originally calculated fee-in-lieu of $9,437, based on 2021 land values. Staff noted the Parks Department recommended against a public park if privatization moves forward. - Applicant John Duke explained that the street conversion was delayed because the city built a water tower on the proposed street, requiring a year of heavy construction; after confirming no damage, residents (19 lot buyers and builders – 100% participation) desired private, gated streets. He also recounted trading five acres of his land for the water tower site, costing him approximately one year and $5 million in delay. - Commissioners questioned the parkland fee calculation, noting the 1.4 acres was originally recorded as “to be dedicated” on the outline plan. City Attorney Whitehead indicated the fee formula is non-discretionary per ordinance (Section 17-60C) and tied to the 2021 design plat. The applicant had met the minimum requirement; the additional 0.9 acres was a voluntary donation, not a dedication. The fee would be collected at the development contract phase for phase one. - Commissioner Sloan expressed strong opposition, arguing the city was losing a promised park for an inadequate fee, and that 1.4 acres of parkland was worth far more today. He worked with staff but could not support the motion. - Chairman McCreery noted the applicant’s significant delay and market changes (higher interest rates) as a self-imposed penalty, and that the developer met the ordinance requirements. Commissioner Clark agreed the policy might need revision but said the applicant followed current rules. - Commissioner Levy asked the applicant to consider a voluntary increase in the fee, but did not make it a condition of approval. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Sisson moved to approve the preliminary and final plan for the public-to-private street conversion for the Wilder PUD, subject to staff report conditions, conditions of approval, and general requirements. Seconded by Commissioner Jacobs. - Vote: The motion passed 6-1. Voting yes: Chairman McCreery, Commissioners Sisson, Levy, Jacobs, Clark, and (previously omitted roll call) – note Commissioner Sloan voted no, citing inadequate parkland compensation. (Commissioner Sloan’s no vote was recorded with reason.) - Next Steps: The conversion will proceed to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for final consideration and approval. New development contracts for privatization will be required for both phases one and two, with the parkland dedication fee paid at the phase one development contract stage. The outline plan and final plans will be updated to remove the parkland and donation notes. Other Business - Staff announced that the April sketch plan meeting was canceled, and reminded commissioners of the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Workshop on May 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the ECD building’s climb room, with a community kickoff the following day at the library.

The Design Review Commission met on March 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of consent agenda items, discussion and approval of the Wolf River Medical Campus preliminary and final site plan, and a storefront paint modification request for Warby Parker that was ultimately approved with amendments after a failed initial motion. Consent Calendar - (24-019) InSouth Bank – Approval of a sign package. Unanimously approved. - (26-004) Arthrex – Approval of a wall sign. Unanimously approved. - (26-006) Southeast Financial Credit Union – Approval of a sign package. Unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Wolf River Medical Campus: Donald Fromm, a resident of The Vineyards neighborhood, spoke positively about the applicant's cooperation with the neighborhood but expressed ongoing concerns about security, visual sight lines, and traffic on Wolf River Boulevard. He requested that the Commission hold the developer accountable for commitments made. Discussion Items - Wolf River Medical Campus (19-921): Staff presented a 13-acre site for two medical office buildings. Key points included: generator enclosure screening (addressed), lighting plan showing zero foot-candle spillover onto adjacent single-family homes (met city standards), extensive landscaping per tree mitigation plan, and trash enclosure orientation (kept as originally proposed due to headlight concerns). Applicant Joe Jarratt (Twin Bridges Investments) confirmed cooperation with neighbor Bob Jargens on larger plant material and a post-planting review. The Commission praised the applicant's engagement with the neighborhood. - Warby Parker Storefront Modification (26-005): The applicant proposed painting the storefront mullions (Winding Waterway color) and entry door (Yosemite Blue) at the Germantown Collection. Staff noted the sign band paint was removed after subcommittee discussion. Commissioners raised concerns that the bright blue door did not comply with the shopping center's approved subdued paint scheme. Alternatives suggested included using the blue only on the upper transom or placing color behind the glass. Applicant Piper Gray (representing Warby Parker) argued for brand consistency but was open to discussion. - Commission Liaison Reports: - Historic Commission: Upcoming events: Germantown History Day (April 18), Historic Train Depot Open House (July 3), and Santa at the Train Depot (December 19). - Parks and Recreation: Houston Levy Bridge installed; CO Franklin Playground equipment due around April 1 with completion by late May; Riverdale Park improvements completed; pickleball court lights now turn off at 10 p.m.; Bluebird Nature Fest and Crawfish Boil (April 11); new Bobby Lanier Farm Park Instagram account launched. - Public Art Commission: River Cultural Greenway tunnel murals – finalist artists selected; mural completion expected by end of May/early June. - Board of Mayor and Aldermen (reported by Alderman Hicks): Budget season underway; Houston High School traffic signal operational; Riverdale Park renamed in memory of Mr. Wildren (moving ceremony with scout salute); Kiwanis pancake breakfast (March 28). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Minutes (Feb 24 & March 12 meetings): Approved unanimously (7-0). - Wolf River Medical Campus Preliminary and Final Site Plan: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Warby Parker Storefront Modification: - Original motion to approve as presented failed (1 vote in favor, 4 opposed, with 2 commissioners not voting in the record). - A motion to reconsider passed unanimously. - An amended motion was approved (6 votes in favor, 1 commissioner abstaining/not voting) approving the storefront with the winding waterway color on the mullions and entry door, and allowing Yosemite blue to be displayed behind the glass inside the store.

The Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen met on March 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included an invocation, pledge, approval of agenda and minutes, citizens to be heard, special recognitions, a beer board public hearing, consent agenda, and regular agenda items. All items were approved, most unanimously. Special Recognition - Jonah Little: Houston High School junior, 165 lb state wrestling champion. - Houston High School JV Cheerleading Team: Won UCA National and World Championships in JV non-tumbling division one. - Houston High School Swim Team: State champions with individual titles by Eva Rottink (100 fly, 100 backstroke) and Roos Rottink (50 free, 100 free), plus 200 medley relay victory. - Houston Middle School Cheerleading Team: National champions. - Proclamation – Blue & Green Day: Declared April 10, 2026 as Blue & Green Day in Germantown to promote organ donation awareness. Read by Alderman Ulicky. Public Comments & Testimony - Scott Ballantyne (7446 Weeping Willow Road): Expressed concern about the previous vote on the Standard TIFF, worrying the developer might pull out, causing a multi-year delay and loss of property tax revenue that could lead to residential property tax increases. - Rocky Yonda (1761 Trun Cove): Criticized the aldermen for voting against the TIFF despite unanimous approvals from citizen boards and four years of review. He argued the city needs tax revenue to offset costs, and the stalled project will delay tax rolls by seven years, potentially leading to another property tax increase. He characterized the vote as either incompetence or politics. Beer Board Public Hearing - Temporary Beer Permit – Bobby Lanier Farm Park, Inc.: Public hearing for a permit to serve beer at the Bluebird Fest & Crawfish Boil on April 11, 2026 from 12:00-3:00 PM at Bobby Lanier Farm Park (2660 Cross Country Road). The application included proof of nonprofit status and a TABC-trained server. No opposition was voiced. The board voted unanimously to approve. Vice Mayor Gibson recused himself due to his board membership with the nonprofit. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously (5-0) and included: - a. Authorization for Competitive Sealed Proposals – Annual Audit Services (no fiscal note) - b. Contract – July 4th Fireworks ($34,912) - c. Contract – Rehabilitation of Stormwater Pipeline Cured-in-Place Pipe ($265,000) - d. Contract – TN Department of Health Ambulance Equipment Grant ($30,303 grant to city) - e. Contract Extensions – Emergency Debris Removal Services (no fiscal note) - f. Donations – 100 Club of Memphis ($1,987) - g. Donations – Library ($2,500) - h. Lease Agreement – Cardio Equipment ($249,318) - i. Preliminary & Final Site Plan – Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Germantown Village Lot 2) - j. Preliminary & Final Site Plan – New Wireless Transmission Facility (MLGW Co-Locate, 9713 Wolf River Blvd.) - k. Purchase – Court Software Annual Subscription Fees ($65,786) - l. Purchase – Fire Vehicle Emergency Warning Equipment ($29,807) - m. Purchase – Firefighter Turnout Clothing ($70,430) - n. Resolution 26R02 – TDEC Public Recreation Grant Match Commitment (no fiscal note) Total fiscal notes for items with costs: approximately $750,000. Discussion Items - Resolution 26R03 – Renaming of Riverdale Park Athletic Field: Director Ruffin presented the recommendation to rename the field to Will Drennan Field in honor of the GFL football coach who drowned at Riverdale Park on August 9, 2022 while trying to save a child. The Parks Commission approved on January 22, 2026. The board voted unanimously to adopt the resolution. Vice Mayor Gibson delivered an emotional tribute, and a framed resolution was presented to the family. - Resolution 26R06 – Adoption of 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update: Director Ruffin presented the update, highlighting 30 years of continuous CAPRA accreditation, key priorities including the Cameron Brown reinvestment project, Pickering Center upgrades, and pedestrian connectivity. Demographic shifts show 65+ population at 23.6% and 5-14 age group at 15.5%. Three public engagement sessions were held. The plan is organized in three tiers. The board voted unanimously to adopt. - Ordinance 2026-6 – Amendments to Division 2, Occupational Safety and Health Program (Third Reading): Director Purdue presented minor updates to Sections 2-66 and 2-68 to comply with TOSHA. No changes since first reading on February 23, 2026. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26R04 – City of Germantown OSHA Program Plan Revisions: Director Purdue presented updates to the safety plan, including 24-hour reporting of hospitalizations, amputations, eye loss, updated contact information, and clarification of notification guidelines. Last formal adoption was October 28, 2013. Approved unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26R03 (Will Drennan Field): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26R06 (Parks Master Plan): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance 2026-6 (OSHA amendments): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 26R04 (OSHA program plan): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Beer Board Temporary Permit: Approved unanimously (4-0, with Vice Mayor Gibson recused). The meeting adjourned following the conclusion of all agenda items.

The meeting was called to order at 11:15 AM on March 10, 2026, according to the provided date. The agenda, as available, was garbled and unreadable. No minutes were provided. The only recorded verbal content from the raw transcription was the single word 'Okay.' There were no public comments, no discussion items, and no votes taken. The meeting appears to have been either a brief procedural opening or a placeholder with no substantive business conducted.

On Monday, 2026-03-09, at 6:00 PM, the Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen held its regular meeting in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building. The board unanimously adopted the agenda and the February 23, 2026 minutes, recognized two education award recipients, approved the consent agenda and Ordinance 2026-6, and defeated Resolution 26R05 concerning The Standard TIFF on a 2-3 roll call after first approving an amendment. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously with no items pulled. It included the following items and stated amounts: public safety radio system maintenance, approximately $470,791; Wolf River Lateral Study, $187,500, described as a 50% Army Corps of Engineers match; rejection of the mast arm painting bid, approximately $35,000; Johnson Road Park asphalt recreation trail, $79,122; police office furniture donation, $4,200; Fiscal Year 2027 budget calendar; Germantown Community Theatre grant, $75,000; annual computer upgrades, $108,106; annual network switch replacements, $24,781; annual server upgrade, $30,648; Fire Station No. 2 bathroom replacement, $40,329; and security cameras, $30,000. The mayor announced the consent agenda total as $1,046,277, but the itemized amounts as read sum to $1,085,477, an unaddressed discrepancy in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony Twelve citizens spoke during Citizens to be Heard. - Patrick Green raised a ballot-language issue concerning the May 5 Charter Amendment, saying the city website and a taxpayer-funded mailer stated a yes vote would prohibit the mayor from holding outside employment even though the word prohibit is not in the ballot language. He said the website wording was removed after his notification, asked for a public clarification, and submitted a public records request; he also said developers with $35 million for an Arlington project do not need a TIF in Germantown. - John Schultz expressed concern that the city property-tax increase was 25.89% over the last two years, roughly ten times the 2.59% increase he cited for the previous two years, and questioned whether controversial projects are being financed by the increase. - Pauline Latham opposed the TIFF, saying smart-growth promises had not held because her taxes have almost tripled since 2014 while cumulative inflation was 37%. She criticized the proposed 20-year, 75/25 split in the developer's favor, said the IDB's composition tilts toward developer interests, and suggested that if the board approves it, the term should be five or ten years with 75% going to the city. - Rusty Rucker said he is an advocate for the city rather than developers and opposed the TIFF, arguing it would set a precedent, take money from police, fire, schools, infrastructure, and parks, and noting Thornwood was developed without a TIF. - Chris Kinley supported the TIFF, saying growing the economy and tax base is how the city funds fire, schools, and police, and the project would put more money into city coffers than without the TIFF; he said the developer would have to go back to the drawing board without it. - Harold Byrd, president of Bank of Bartlett and the Shelby County Chamber Alliance, spoke 100% in support of the TIFF, describing the corner as dormant for 25-30 years and saying the tool would fund infrastructure; he cited a Bartlett TIF example. - James Adams thanked volunteer board and commission members, urged citizens to participate in city meetings, and supported the Germantown Community Theatre consent-agenda grant, saying arts are vital to the community. - Forrest Owens, former Germantown city planner and planning director, supported the TIFF, saying the corner needs a large investment and tax increment financing was created for this type of redevelopment; he urged holding the developers to a high standard. - Janie Day, president of the Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce, supported the TIFF, describing the project as transformative and Thornwood on steroids, and arguing that mixed-use development is the future; she asked if not now, when, and if not this developer, who. - Johnny Gross, CEO of the Shayer Clinic and former member of Germantown economic and financial advisory commissions, urged approval, citing the outdated Carrefour center and saying that something else would be built without the TIFF but not the project as presented; he said property taxes would double and sales tax revenue would add about $300,000, roughly five times current revenue. - Mike Edwards, former first chairman of the Industrial Development Board and Economic Development Commission, expressed mixed feelings and said he had questions about TIF versus PILOT and about the $35 million figure, though he understood infrastructure costs; he voiced confidence in the local developer and in the board's homework. - Richard Town, president of Pop Solutions Group and his local HOA, supported the project, noting commercial property is assessed at 40% of value versus 25% for homes, Germantown is landlocked, and commercial growth helps avoid residential tax increases; he noted the developer must invest before TIF funds are distributed. The mayor added a point of clarity after one speaker that IDB members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the BMA. No one spoke during the public hearing on Ordinance 2026-6. Special Recognition - The Education Commission awarded the March 2026 Teacher of the Month to Patrick Gossett, a fifth-grade math teacher at Riverdale School, cited for creating an engaging classroom and building student confidence in math. - The Education Commission awarded the March 2026 Youth Excellence Award to Billy Gates, a Houston High senior, AP Scholar with Distinction, Eagle Scout, three-time All-West violinist, four-year varsity lacrosse player, and student representative to the Germantown Municipal School District Board of Education. - Alderman Hicks also highlighted a Battle of the Books event involving more than 36 third-through-fifth grade students who each read 20 books. Discussion Items Ordinance 2026-6 - Amendments to Division 2, Occupational Safety and Health Program Director of Procurement and Risk Catherine Purdue presented the ordinance on second reading. The amendments designate the city administrator to appoint a safety director and allow the city administrator or safety director to recommend revisions to the occupational safety and health program for adoption by BMA resolution. She described the changes as minor housekeeping needed to maintain TOSHA compliance. The board approved the ordinance unanimously, with Alderman Ulicky noting it was a compliance issue; staff indicated the updated safety plan would come back as a resolution after final adoption on March 23, 2026. Resolution 26R05 - Economic Impact Plan for The Standard Director Ross presented the Economic Impact Plan for The Standard, a 10-acre mixed-use project by CRE DEVCO Germantown at the former Carrefour Shopping Center, including about 150,000 square feet of office, 88,000 square feet of retail, a hotel, 320 multifamily units, and civic space. It is the first TIFF application under the city's 2017 policy. The Industrial Development Board unanimously approved the TIFF application and economic impact plan on February 10. Key terms include a frozen 2025 base tax year, a 20-year term, an increment split of 75% to the developer and 25% to the city, and a cap of $35.5 million in incremental tax revenue; reimbursements begin only after phases are completed, appraised, and accepted. Staff's revenue impact model, requested by Alderman Ulicky, used a 40-year horizon, a 3-year construction delay with the TIFF and a 5-year delay without it, and found the TIFF scenario produced $10.1 million in net present value to the city; modeled lower-density alternatives produced $4.25 million, $2.1 million, and about $1.9 million less, and even a modeled high-impact alternative was still less. Applicant representative Michael Fay described the project's evolution, said non-residential construction material costs rose 43% between 2022 and 2026, and stated the site generated only $60,000 a year in property tax and $216,000 in combined property and sales tax over five years. He said phase one was built with $7 million of developer funds, phases one and two would generate roughly $700,000 a year for the city, and projected 403 new jobs and $15.9 million in direct and indirect wages; he also said 42% of phase-two TIFF funding would come from Germantown and 58% from Shelby County. He asked the board to approve the TIFF so construction could start that summer. Alderman Ulicky moved approval and Alderman Salvaggio seconded. Alderman Salvaggio then moved an amendment adding three conditions to the development agreement: the applicant would pay for an independent third-party CPA or consultant review of TIFF funding requests; all TIFF funding requests would be public record subject to IDB policy; and the applicant would provide Germantown Police Department with a minimum finished office space to be determined for $1 per year for the lease term, including a handicap-accessible restroom, changing area, room for two desks, located in phase two, with two dedicated parking spots. During the amendment discussion, Vice Mayor Gibson asked Director Ross how the conditions originated; Ross said they were brought through applicant representative Fay. The amendment passed 5-0. During discussion, Alderman Ulicky supported the TIFF, saying the city gets more now and in the long run than from a lesser development and that the project still contributes in a recession. Vice Mayor Gibson supported it, emphasizing the cost of doing nothing and projecting nearly $12 million in property and sales tax revenue over 20 years from phases one and two. Alderman Sanders opposed, saying he believed the project would move forward without the TIFF, citing affidavit return figures including 1.35% without TIF on phase one and 9.45% without TIF on phase two versus 11.79% with TIF, and expressing concern about future city funding needs. Alderman Hicks opposed, saying projections are not guarantees and elastic sales tax revenue is not a substitute for stable property tax revenue; she said the question is whether public participation in financing is necessary in one of the region's strongest markets. Alderman Salvaggio, despite proposing the amendment, voted no, saying the TIFF was not part of the original discussion and that significant modifications and financing obligations should be the developer's responsibility. Key Outcomes - The agenda and February 23, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously. - Teacher of the Month and Youth Excellence Award recognitions were presented. - The 12-item consent agenda was approved unanimously, including the stated total/amount discrepancy noted above. - Ordinance 2026-6 was approved unanimously on second reading and will proceed to a third/final reading; staff expects the safety program plan resolution after final adoption on March 23, 2026. - The amendment adding three police/transparency conditions to Resolution 26R05 passed 5-0. - The amended main motion to approve Resolution 26R05 failed on a roll call vote of 2-3. Voting yes: Vice Mayor Gibson and Alderman Ulicky. Voting no: Aldermen Salvaggio, Sanders, and Hicks. The Standard TIFF and Economic Impact Plan were not approved by the BMA. The meeting was adjourned after the vote.

The Germantown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (2026-03-03), at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1930 S. Germantown Rd. After roll call established a quorum, the Commission heard a presentation on and unanimously approved the Wolf River Medical Project preliminary and final site plan. The meeting also included public comment, a review of tree mitigation policy, and liaison/staff updates. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the January 6, 2026 Planning Commission meeting and the February 19, 2026 Sketch Plan meeting were approved. Alderman Salvaggio abstained; all other members voted yes. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Jurgens, 7295 Oakville Drive, Vineyards neighborhood, spoke during the public hearing. He said residents and developer Joe Jarratt had worked together since 2019, but he raised concerns about visual and security screening along the property's western edge. Citing roughly a seven-foot elevation difference between the neighborhood street and the applicant's top of slope, he asked for an eight-foot fence or administrative approval/variance for one. He also flagged four or five hazardous/dying trees in the natural area and said some had been expected to be removed but were in the do-not-disturb area. - No other public speakers came forward. Discussion Items - Staff presented Case 19-921, Wolf River Medical Project, located on the south side of Wolf River Blvd., 1,189 ft east of Riverdale Rd. Applicant Twin Bridges Investments LLC and property owner TBI Wolf River I LLC (Joe Jarratt, principal) seek approval of a preliminary and final site plan in the 'O' Office district. The agenda lists the area as 13.874 acres; staff referenced 13.74 and 13.84 acres at different points. The site had been rezoned from single-family residential to office in 2019, and an earlier site plan/grading permit had expired. Site preparation began in August 2025 after the Commission allowed deferred tree mitigation and was complete by February 2026. - The proposal has two phases, each a two-story building of approximately 54,450 sq ft. Staff said setbacks, height, parking, and other bulk regulations meet the 'O' district requirements, with no exceptions requested. A 15-foot planting screen is required where office zoning abuts the townhouse zoning to the west, near the Vineyards neighborhood; the applicant proposes to leave that lower, wet area as a natural/non-disturbed buffer. - Tree mitigation: staff explained the city's 40% canopy goal requires 16 trees per acre, yielding 222 required trees for the site. The applicant would plant 147 species-worthy trees, leaving 75 replacement trees due. At $400 per three-inch replacement tree, the remaining mitigation payment is $30,000, to be paid at the time of the development contract. The applicant also asked that on-site trees matching the city tree plan count toward mitigation. - Commissioner questions focused on traffic and curb design. Alderman Salvaggio raised concerns about egress turning radii onto Wolf River Blvd., especially with 45 mph traffic, and asked about mountable curbs or curb/median adjustments. Staff said construction drawings can be required to show turning movements and adjust curb lines/median to avoid vehicles jumping curbs. Commissioner Levy asked whether variances or 'warrants' would be needed; staff replied the proposal is permitted under current zoning and no variances are expected. - Joe Jarratt, applicant principal, stated his team had worked with neighbors for about 10 months, preserved the non-disturbed area at neighbors' request, removed 8–10 front-facing parking spaces, and moved screening to a higher elevation near parking lot level. He said the team was comfortable with the recommended conditions. Commissioner Sloan asked about screening and tree mitigation options; Mr. Jarratt responded that the low, wet natural area was not well suited to additional planting and that additional cypress trees were being planted on the retained rear parcel, although not credited on this site. - During final discussion, Chairman McCreary clarified that Germantown does not have a 'conditional approval' category; Assistant City Attorney Josh Whitehead noted that Tennessee's prohibition on conditional approvals applies to rezoning, while site plan approvals can include conditions. Old Business and Reports - Chairman McCreary reported that the previously reviewed cell tower near Houston came through with an alternative power source; no pole/overhead line work was needed. - Commissioner Jacobs reported a BZA case involving a private subdivision/flag lots off Forest Hill-Irene. The subdivision redefined an adjacent lot as a corner lot and restricted a proposed garage setback; he urged continued attention to flag-lot regulations. - Director Ross announced that the Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved a contract with House Levine of Chicago for the comprehensive plan; kickoff has occurred and an engagement calendar will follow. Mayor Palazzolo noted the comprehensive plan is expected to inform a future zoning code update. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the Wolf River Medical Project preliminary and final site plan, phases 1 and 2, subject to the staff report, four conditions, and general requirements, was made by Commissioner Jacobs and seconded by Alderman Salvaggio. - Roll-call vote: 7–0 in favor (Sloan, Sisson, Levy, Jacobs, Salvaggio, McCreary, and Palazzolo). The project will next go to the Design Review Commission before construction plan review. - The four conditions referenced in the staff report included: tree mitigation/payment; review of the applicant's trip-generation report by the city's outside traffic consultant; submission/review of hydraulic and hydrology studies with construction plans; and completion of site infrastructure with Phase 1, with Phase 2 construction moving forward once a user is lined up. Any required site modifications from the traffic or drainage studies must be addressed before construction plan review. - Under new business, Commissioner Sloan requested a deeper review of the tree mitigation ordinance, including how arborist reports, replacement credits, and the cap are calculated. Director Ross said staff would work with Parks and Recreation, the Tree Board, and other partners and would consider it through the annual zoning text amendment process; no formal action was taken.

The Germantown Design Review Commission met on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, following a 5:30 PM executive session. The meeting included the election of officers, annual adoption of the Germantown Forward 2035 Strategic Plan, and approval of several development items, including a new Hattie B's Hot Chicken location. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Items A–F were approved as a single consent agenda. These included sign packages and exterior modifications for American Eagle (Aerie) at Saddle Creek South (cases 26-002 and 26-003), a new wireless transmission facility (MLGW Tower co-locate at 9713 Wolf River Blvd., case 25-021), and a sign package for Hattie B's Hot Chicken at Germantown Village Square (case 25-011). Commissioner Schmidt recused himself on the MLGW tower item. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). Election of Officers - Vice Chairman: Commissioner Schmidt was elected Vice Chairman over Commissioner Schweighofer after a brief discussion regarding Mr. Schmidt's potential future term limits. The vote was 8-0. - Secretary: Commissioner White was elected Secretary. The vote was 8-0. - Both terms run through 2027. Commission Liaison Appointments - The following appointments were confirmed: Commissioner Kimbrough to the Historic Commission; Commissioner Meanwell to the Parks and Recreation Commission; Commissioner Schmidt to the Public Art Commission; Chairman Bruns to the Sketch Plan Committee; and Chairman Bruns also to the Tree Board. Adoption of Germantown Forward 2035 Strategic Plan - Ms. Pounder presented the annual adoption of the citizen-led strategic plan, highlighting the vision, community values, and key performance areas relevant to the commission (economic development and land use/transportation). Strategic objectives include walkability in the Central Business District, promoting investment in key commercial areas, and property value trends. The plan includes a long-term (10–15 year) goal to redevelop the municipal center into a mixed-use city center. The commission adopted the plan unanimously (8-0). Hattie B's Hot Chicken – Preliminary and Final Site Plan (Case 25-011) - Staff presentation: The proposed site at 7694 Poplar Avenue (Germantown Village Square) is under 0.4 acres. The building is 22 feet tall with a parapet to screen mechanical units. There are 15 parking spaces and 2 bicycle parking spots. Access is from the internal shopping center lot. Exterior materials include alabaster brick, wood composite, and a cherry tomato red storefront system. A patio with red and black furnishings is planned. Landscaping includes planters along Poplar Avenue. Lighting conforms to smart code regulations. - Commission questions and discussion: Commissioners asked about the building's height relative to grade changes, the depth and offset of the brick diamond pattern on the west elevation, and the use of the cherry tomato red color (a brand concession for Hattie B's). The applicant confirmed that the red was never altered before and that the diamond pattern was a new solution to add visual interest to the rear elevation. Concerns about visibility of red patio furnishings from Poplar Avenue were addressed. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the applicant's responsiveness to prior subcommittee feedback. - Outcome: The commission approved the preliminary and final site plan unanimously (8-0). Commission Liaison Reports - Historic Commission: Reported a subcommittee forming to plan participation in the nation's 250th anniversary celebration and its relation to Germantown's history. - Parks and Recreation Commission: Met January 22, 2026. Key items: Cameron Brown Park enhancements (237 additional parking spaces, conversion of field 5 to synthetic turf, improved pedestrian access, greenway connections); Riverdale Park nearing completion; pickleball restroom building installation expected mid-April; Greenway Beaver Loop redesign to widen trail; Houston Levee bridge replacement; parks department pursuing CAPRA accreditation; master plan shifting focus from sports complex to Cameron Brown improvements. - Public Art Commission: Released a call for artist applications for the Riverwood Pedestrian Tunnel mural project on January 16. Received 63 applications, narrowed to 10 semifinalists. Proposed designs due March 12, 2026. - Tree Board: Reported reorganization of natural resources department; Brian Pifer training as arborist. Living Legacy Tree Fund donations increased (5–6 trees in recent months, a notable bump). Tree mitigation phase 2 projects at Cameron Brown. Arbor Day event scheduled for March 6, 2026, at Huey's parking lot, first come first served. - Board of Mayor & Aldermen (BMA) report: BMA expanded debt capacity to support school district funding. Tax increment financing question expected at March 9 BMA meeting. Budget season begun. Text amendments adding design review commission review to all Germantown zoning (including SMART growth) were adopted on second reading. Key Outcomes - Elections: Schmidt elected Vice Chairman; White elected Secretary (both unanimous). - Consent Agenda (Items A–F): Approved 8-0. - Germantown Forward 2035 Strategic Plan: Adopted 8-0. - Hattie B's Hot Chicken Site Plan (Case 25-011): Approved 8-0. - Next Steps: Staff to compile all design plans into one full set for the entitlement process. Subcommittee meeting anticipated due to five new applications received by the upcoming deadline. - Meeting adjourned after liaison reports.

The Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included an invocation by Community and Economic Development Director Cameron Ross, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Brian Ulicky, and a moment of remembrance for longtime volunteer Barbara Montgomery. The agenda and minutes from the February 9 meeting were unanimously approved. No citizens registered to speak during Citizens to Be Heard. Consent Calendar - Change Order No. 5 – Riverdale Park Reinvestment Phase II: $16,042 for electrical work on pickleball courts. - PEG Disbursement to GMSD – 2nd Quarter: $19,769 for public, education, and government programming. - Purchase – Printing and Mailing Services – Utilities: $138,960 for printing and mailing services. All consent items were approved unanimously without separate discussion. Special Recognition - Teacher of the Month – February 2026: Charla Miller, 5th grade science and social studies teacher at Farmington Elementary, was recognized for her dedication, innovative literacy integration, and leadership as a K Kids Club sponsor and organizer of the annual 5th grade D.C. trip. Mayor Wyre personally thanked her for empathy shown to his family during a difficult time. - Youth Excellence Award – February 2026: Casey Jang, senior at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, was honored for academic excellence (14 honors, 8 AP courses, post-AP math), leadership (president of Inspire mental health club, co-founder of Olympic Sports Club), and community service (Streets Ministries, Memphis Communiversity, hospital volunteering). - Arbor Day Proclamation: Alderman Sanders read a proclamation declaring Friday, March 6, 2026 as Arbor Day in Germantown, noting the 154th anniversary, the city’s 32nd year as a Tree City USA, and a free dogwood tree giveaway from 9–11 a.m. at Germantown Crossing Shopping Center. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2026-5 – Amendments to Chapters 2, 6, 17, and 23 of the Municipal Code (Third and Final Reading): Director Cameron Ross presented the 330-page annual/semi-annual zoning and subdivision code amendments, which aim to improve clarity, consistency, and efficiency. Key changes include: reorganizing repetitive language into use and bulk tables, adding parking lot tables, allowing up to 10% administrative approval for site plans, moving conditional use permit appeals from the Board of Zoning Appeals to the Planning Commission, and updating accessory structure definitions (including electric charging stations) and accessory dwelling unit regulations. The amendments were developed through work sessions with the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Design Review Commission, and align with the Germantown Forward 2030 plan. Alderman Salvaggio praised the document as the best he has seen for clarity and efficiency, noting that staff’s work enables easier use by citizens, developers, and staff. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance 2026-5 was approved on third and final reading by a unanimous 5-0 vote (Aldermen Ulicky, Salvaggio, Sanders, Vice Mayor Gibson, Alderman Hicks all voting yes). - The next steps for the ordinance will be implementation of the amended code sections.

The Germantown Industrial Development Board (IDB) met on February 10, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall to consider approval of an Economic Impact Plan (EIP) for The Standard project, a mixed-use development proposed by CRE Devco Germantown, LLC. The plan includes a request for tax increment financing (TIF) with a maximum cap of $35.5 million over 20 years. After receiving public comments and presentations from staff and the developer, the board voted unanimously (5-0) to approve the EIP and transmit it to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen and the Shelby County Commission for final approval. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board approved the minutes from its January 5 and January 20 meetings by separate motions, each passing unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Burnett (2223 Ottaburn Lane) urged rejection of the TIF, arguing the project would not need a subsidy and that the city would lose over $9 million in property tax revenue over 20 years, using Thornwood as a comparison. - Dare Stock (1632 Holly Hill Drive) expressed adamant opposition, stating the TIF "robs citizens" and questioned the developer’s financing, adding that the city’s property taxes already rose 30%. - Sarah Freeman (7684 Appahon Lane) opposed the TIF on grounds of precedent and conflict of interest (noting a board member’s involvement), and said the developer should have anticipated costs. - Lillian Landrighan (1635 Holly Hill) urged a no vote, calling the $35 million TIF a subsidy that would shift costs to residents, increase traffic, and set a dangerous precedent. - Louise Wilson (9018 Jenner Road) questioned the TIF’s necessity—the site is not blighted—and highlighted risks if the project fails, noting lack of details about guarantees, competition with Thornwood, and the 75% tax diversion. - Pauline Latham (6958 Country Road) opposed the TIF, stating existing taxpayers shoulder burdens while new development gets a break, and that Thornwood succeeded without a TIF. - Patrick Green (2900 Oakley Lane) opposed the $22 million (his estimate) diversion of taxes, arguing the developer already proved viability with Phase 1 built privately, and that residents are held to higher standards. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Cameron, IDB staff, reviewed the TIF policy, process, and project alignment with the Western Gateway Small Area Plan. He noted the $65 million capital improvement threshold and $5 million infrastructure minimum; The Standard exceeds both with over $130 million in improvements and $35 million in eligible infrastructure. - Developer Presentation: The developer’s representative addressed misinformation, emphasized that the TIF is not a giveaway but a tool to fund infrastructure using future growth. He noted the project’s $130 million investment, 320 lofts (assessed as commercial at 40%, not residential 25%), 88,000 sq ft of retail, and controlled-access security measures. He argued the project cannot proceed without the TIF ("but for" test met via sworn affidavit). - Financial Consultant Presentation: Reed Dolberger explained the TIF math: total property tax revenue after Phase 1 & 2 completion estimated at $762,000/year for the city. The city retains base year tax ($108,860), debt service millage, and 24.75% of increment; developer gets 75% of increment. County side: total tax $1.145 million, with similar splits. Total combined annual property tax to city/county is about $768,000 to taxing bodies, $1.1 million to project, and $43,000 in fees. - Board Questions: Members clarified that the TIF period begins only after phases are complete and appraised; the $35.5 million cap is based on eligible public infrastructure costs; the developer is seeking a $14.5 million loan against approved TIF revenues; the TIF can be assigned if property is sold, subject to a development agreement with benchmarks; the split between city and county TIF contributions is approximately 42% city, 58% county, all directed to infrastructure on the site. - Board Member Comments: One member noted the site currently generates $70,000/year in property tax; post-development, the city will receive at least $301,944/year in property tax even with the TIF (base plus 25% increment), plus sales tax. Another emphasized the importance of commercial growth (assessed at 40%) to stabilize residential property taxes. Key Outcomes - Motion: Board member Yonda moved to approve the Economic Impact Plan for The Standard of Germantown, with a maximum incremental tax cap not to exceed $35,500,000, and transmit the plan to the Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen and the Shelby County Commission with a recommendation for approval. The motion was seconded. - Vote: The board voted 5-0 in favor: Yonda (yes), Hendricks (yes), Ham (yes), Harless (yes), Chairman Evans (yes). - Next Steps: The approved EIP and associated resolution are forwarded to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen and Shelby County Commission for final approval. If approved, a development agreement will be executed outlining benchmarks and timelines.