SIDEWALK RENOVATIONS are well underway around the Shelbyville square. The trees have come down which may have startled some folks. The shade and beauty of the trees will definitely be missed. However, tree roots cause a great deal of difficulty for pavement stability. Imagine instead attractive light poles with places for banners that can be displayed to celebrate a season or educate about our history. The light poles will also have space for hanging baskets to be suspended giving downtown fresh plants and flowers all around the square. Additional containers of plants and flowers will be added after the sidewalk renovation is complete, further beautifying downtown.
As expected, the renovation is causing some access and parking challenges around the square. Keep in mind the short-term pain is for a long-term gain for all of our community members. It could be you or a loved one using a wheelchair or walker. Also consider the shops and businesses around the square, especially with the approach of the holiday shopping season. Shopping local businesses gives support to your neighbors. Please go through the extra hassle of getting to the square to support local retailers. Many retailers bring in the majority of their income during the holiday shopping season. When you buy your gifts locally you are not only giving an extra special gift to your family member, you are also giving a gift to the retailer.
SPECIAL EVENT GRANT PROGRAM
The beautification that is taking place around the square is part of the tourism focus the City of Shelbyville has undertaken. Researching what attracts tourists to an area, whether for a day or overnight, the attractiveness and cleanliness of the downtown district is of utmost importance. Marketing for experienceshelbyville. com will be primarily happening outside of Bedford County. While residents of Bedford County will certainly enjoy special events and a more attractive downtown, the goal of tourism is to bring in dollars from other communities. Tourism is proven to reduce taxes for local residents while increasing their quality of life and infrastructure.
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
City Council recently took up the issue of addressing additional property tax relief. Currently, the City of Shelbyville provides up to $53 in property tax relief for veterans and widow(er)s of veterans, people with disabilities, and the economically disadvantaged. Additionally, the State of Tennessee provides up to $116 in property tax relief. With the new ordinance the City Council would increase the maximum contribution to $116. That would provide someone qualifying for relief up to a total of $232 toward their property taxes. The ordinance passed unanimously.
MORE MADE IN SHELBYVILLE NEWS
- The dog park at HV Griffin Park is moving forward. Soon your canine family members will be able to socialize and play in a safe environment designed with them in mind.
- The recent “Worship on the Square” was a huge success with over 3,000 participants.
- Country singer Josh Turner recently shot a music video in Shelbyville. Visit shelbyvilletn.org to stay in touch with the City of Shelbyvilleand explore Shelbyville tourism at experienceshelbyville. com -GN
