Design Review Commission Meeting - May 20, 2025

The Design Review Commission of Germantown, Tennessee met on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, following a 5:30 PM executive session. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Bruns with a quorum present. The primary actions were approval of the consent agenda and receipt of liaison reports, including updates on the city budget and the Tree Task Force.

Consent Calendar

• The Commission approved the minutes of the March 25, 2025 meeting unanimously.
• The consent agenda originally included Case (25-008) LeBonheur Pediatrics (sign package at 1255 S. Germantown Rd.) and was modified during executive session to also include Case (14-474) Riveroaks Reformed Presbyterian Church (two revised ground signs at 1665 S. Germantown Rd.). Both items were approved as part of the consent agenda on a unanimous vote (6-0).

Discussion Items

• Budget Report (Alderman Hicks): Alderman Hicks reported that the city budget is in process. The first reading has occurred; the second reading and public hearing will be held on the second Monday in June, with the final third reading on the fourth Monday in June. He clarified that rising property appraisals do not automatically increase taxes because state law requires a tax rate rollback to keep revenue neutral. However, a proposed 29-cent tax increase is under consideration to fund pension costs (which have nearly doubled) and other priorities. He also announced the upcoming "Grooven and Grillin" free concert series at Municipal Park, featuring three bands and food from local vendors.
• Tree Task Force Update (Commissioner Nischwitz): Commissioner Nischwitz reported that the Task Force has identified specific locations along the Poplar corridor near Germantown Road, targeting Truist, First Horizon, and Regions Bank. The goal is to create a standard tree palette, with ML&W removing undesirable trees at no cost, and financial incentives (via Cameron Ross) to encourage participation. This model aims to improve visibility and usability along key corridors.
• Commissioner Reports: Other liaisons reported no new activity. Chairman Bruns noted that the First Watch restaurant has been painted with the debated color, receiving positive feedback.

Key Outcomes

• Consent Agenda Approved: Both sign packages for LeBonheur Pediatrics and Riveroaks Reformed Presbyterian Church were approved without further discussion.
• Budget Timeline Set: The city budget’s second reading and public hearing will occur on the second Monday of June, with final adoption on the fourth Monday.
• Tree Task Force Next Steps: Commissioners will develop a tree palette and present it to targeted retail locations, with ML&W and financial incentives to implement replacements along Poplar corridor.