Tim Garrett on the Issues
Education
Though Metro is headed in the right direction with a 2010 graduation rate of 82.9 percent, more Charter schools and higher ACT scores, more improvement is needed. I will continue to support programs that improve education quality, such as the Academies initiative and vocational training programs that give non-college bound students skills that local employers need.
Public Safety
Only one other metropolitan area in the nation covers a larger geographical area than Davidson County. Our police and fire departments have a lot of ground to cover and I believe that they must have the resources needed to respond quickly to any emergency. I will continue to work to allocate funds needed to add police precincts, improve police and fire coverage and reduce emergency response time in every neighborhood.
The Homeless
Perception is reality when it comes to the homeless. Left unchecked, this problem will discourage residents and tourists from spending time in our city’s vibrant commercial districts. I will work to increase the presence of police on the streets to protect the interests of everyone who lives, works and plays in our historic city center.
Housing
Davidson County needs housing options to fit every budget. I believe that access to affordable housing is an important stepping stone to financial security for citizens on every rung of the economic ladder. I will continue to support tax credits for the construction of affordable housing and encourage more public/private partnerships to make home ownership a reality for anyone who desires it.
Growth
Continued economic development enables Metro to provide necessary services to citizens without raising property taxes. I believe that growth that creates opportunity for all is the right kind of growth for Davidson County. I will work to create an environment that supports managed growth, relying on public/private partnerships wherever possible to finance economic development initiatives. I will continue to support projects that revitalize old neighborhoods and repurpose existing buildings like the Peterbilt facility in Madison, which is being converted for use by MTA and Metro police.