Goodlettsville Board of Commissioners Meeting – October 8, 2026

The Board of Commissioners of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, met on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM in City Hall – Massie Chambers. The meeting included the swearing-in of a new City Manager, recognition of the 2026 Citizens Police Academy graduates, reports from staff and commissioners, and action on four ordinances and one resolution. All votes were unanimous (5-0) on each item.

Swearing-in of New City Manager

• Julie High was sworn in as the new City Manager of Goodlettsville. She took the oath of office administered by the Mayor and expressed gratitude to her family, city employees, and the Board of Commissioners for their trust and support.

City Manager’s Report

• Sewer rate increase: Metro Water Services passed along a 2.6% annual increase in sewer treatment costs. The Board previously approved passing through increases up to 2.3% to customers; accordingly, a 2.3% sewer rate increase will appear on November bills.
• Tourism grant: The tourism department was awarded a $30,000 tourism marketing grant, continuing a multi-year streak.
• Cemeteries added to state program: Jackson Family Cemetery (near Moss Wright Park dog park) and WM Bowen Family Cemetery (near the Bowen House) were added to the Tennessee Historic Commission cemetery program.
• Farmers market: The market ended its ninth season, averaging over 800 weekly visitors and generating the highest revenue ever, with customers spending approximately $10,000 per week. The market will return the first Thursday in May 2027.
• Upcoming events: GoodFest in the Park (Oct 24, 11–3 at Moss Wright Park); free drop-off day at the convenience center and community shredding event (Oct 10); household hazardous waste collection (Oct 17); Veterans Day Parade (Nov 11 at Moss Wright Park, 10–12).

Recognition of 2026 Citizens Police Academy Participants

• Chief Audra Reeves and Lieutenant Matt Shoesmith presented certificates to graduates of the six-week Citizens Police Academy. The class included John Michael Brady, Ronan Conlin, Teresa Kimbrough Colbreth, Jeff Friedman, Becky Harper, Chief Jernigan, Lashonda Johnson, Letty Jones, Kathy Mylam, Michael P. Sall, and Carol Smith. Two absent graduates (Angela Wilson and Sean Young) were also recognized.
• Lashonda Johnson, speaking on behalf of the class, thanked Chief Reeves, Lieutenant Shoesmith, and all instructors, and expressed enthusiasm for engaging with the community.

Commissioner Comments and Reports

• Vice Mayor Duncan presented a certificate of appreciation to Veronica and Liz’s Kitchen for their unwavering community support and contributions.
• Vice Mayor Duncan also thanked the Public Works Department for long overnights performing temporary road patching. He explained that the delay in final paving and sidewalks is due to TDOT not issuing permits, not the city. The city decided to do temporary patching in-house, saving over $100,000 compared to hiring the original contractor. He named several Public Works employees (Jack, Michael, Jason, Matt, Kevin, Makana, Floyd, Bobby) for their hard work.
• Commissioner Anderson reminded residents of the bulk trash and community shredding event on Saturday, October 10, 9–12 at the Goodlettsville Library (rain date may be announced).
• Commissioner Walker highlighted Goodlettsville businesses recognized in the Nashville Scene “Best of Nashville” awards: K FAM Suites (best brownies), Chef’s Market (best caterer – third consecutive year, sixth time overall), and Moss Wright Park (best underappreciated birding location).

Unfinished Business – Second Reading

• Ordinance 26-1155: To amend Goodlettsville Municipal Code Title 8, Chapter 2, Section 212(6) and replace Section 219 entirely with new Event Venue Classification. Approved 5-0.
• Ordinance 26-1156: To amend the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget (Ordinance #26-1142). An amendment was added on the floor to include additional insurance proceeds for the purchase and replacement of a vehicle. The ordinance was approved as amended 5-0.

New Business – First Reading and Resolution

• Ordinance 26-1157: To amend Title 17, Section 109 concerning oversized tree debris. Commissioner Anderson proposed a two-part amendment to clarify the size threshold: tree trunks, logs, stumps, or other woody material exceeding 14 inches in diameter and/or 10 feet in length shall be considered oversized tree debris and subject to a fee for service established by Board resolution. The amendment was approved 5-0, and the ordinance as amended was approved 5-0. The policy applies outside of emergency weather events (e.g., ice storms) and is meant to address contractor-dumped oversized debris.
• Resolution 26-1355: Declaring certain property listed in the packet as surplus to city needs and authorizing disposal via online auction or other reasonable manner. Approved 5-0.

Key Outcomes

• All four ordinances and one resolution passed unanimously (5-0).
• New City Manager Julie High officially assumed office.
• Citizens Police Academy graduates were recognized; the program will continue to engage the community.
• Sewer rates will increase by 2.3% on November bills, reflecting Metro’s increased treatment costs.
• Temporary road patching by Public Works saved the city over $100,000 while awaiting TDOT permits for final paving.
• The Board amended the oversized tree debris ordinance to define size limits and authorize a fee-for-service for non-emergency pickups.