“The Direction”
July 2010

**A special called meeting of the Harriman City Council was held Tuesday June 22, 2010 to approve the first reading of the budget for the fiscal year 2010-2011, the final reading will be scheduled for mid-July.  The final reading will reflect the new certified property tax rate that will be significantly lower than the current.  We are proud to say that we will not have an increase in property tax again this year. 
 
**The Tennessee Dept. of Transportation was contacted a couple of months ago about the traffic light at the intersection of Highway 70 and Pine Ridge Road, after we realized that there was some miscommunication HUB and Tdot are quickly working to put a left signal that will supplement the left turn lane.  That project should be closed around the end of June or the first week of July.
 
**I want to be sure to keep everyone updated on the paving/utility project that is ongoing; thus far 14 of the 17 roads have been completed on the HUB work.  As HUB nears the end of their maintenance and repair of these roads please be patient with us we will begin paving when their projects are completed.  Russell Street will be the last on their list and it is the largest road in need of repair from HUB and paving.  More on this update next month.
 
**The Princess Foundation has chosen the architect and general contractor.  This project is a little different than most construction and/or restoration projects because the foundation is putting extra emphasis on local contractors and keeping as much the money in Roane County that is possible.  The first phase will be roof repair and the second phase will be the outside of the building including the marquee.  The outside was chosen as one of the first phases because it will immediately improve the appearance of the downtown and progress will be able to be displayed on the marquee throughout the rest of the project.  Local contractors will need to follow this project closely; we want all locals to have a fair chance of working.
 
**CH 15 is in its final phase, once the flooring is complete it will be ready to turn over to RSCC to be ON AIR.  A big thanks to the Street Dept. and the Sheriff’s Dept. for their help on this project, by utilizing these dept. we have been able to complete this TV station with primarily donated labor.
 
**The Farmer’s Market is in full swing every Wednesday and Saturday at Riverfront Park!  Note: Get there early because the demand is such that by 10 a.m. most are sold out!
 
**As usual, be sure to shop your local merchants. 
 

Chris Mason, Mayor Public Service Announcement