Commerce Park Proposed For White Pine

White Pine Commerce Park Public HearingStaff Photo by Jeff Depew

White Pine Commerce Park Public Hearing
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

Concerned and interested citizens came out on Thursday evening, January 12, 2017, to participate in a public forum regarding a Commerce Park that has been proposed for the White Pine area. The presentation, directed by Jefferson County Industrial Development Board Chairman Larry Masters, took place at White Pine Town Hall. In addition to Masters, representatives from consulting firm Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, as well as Director of Jefferson County Economic Development Alliance Scott Faulkenberry, were on hand to address questions from the public.

The Jefferson County Industrial Development Board has spent several years in search of property that is appropriate for development of a business or commerce park. Recently, the IDB contacted Norfolk Southern representatives regarding the possibility of purchasing land in the New Market/Strawberry Plains area that was acquired by Norfolk Southern for use as an Intermodal site. Though the Intermodal project appears to be tabled due to a wavering economy and internal financial concerns plaguing the rail giant, Masters reported that Norfolk Southern was not interested in parting with the land. They did leave the door open, should a large rail user express interest in locating in the area but declined to sell otherwise at this time. According to Masters, other parcels of property were vetted but most came with complications that made them unpalatable for a business or commerce park. The current location, which would be accessed from two potential locations, one on Hwy 113 and the other Roy Messer Hwy, also has impact to Rankin Road. Masters said that one attractive feature of the property was that it does not have multiple owners, which can sometimes be problematic. Currently the IDB has an option on the property that will expire in April of 2017 but the Chairman stated that it can be extended if necessary.

Several members of the public offered questions and statements about the proposed project, with many of them centering around the proximity of an industrial park that is located around four miles away in Hamblen County. Concern that the already functioning park has a low occupancy though the amenities are considerable was a reoccurring point during the course of the meeting. Residential impact, heavy traffic, schools and the ability to attract quality businesses, as well as zoning issues, were all concerns that were expressed at the lengthy meeting. Faulkenberry, who will be charged with attracting business to any business or commerce park located in Jefferson County, stated that there has been interest from businesses looking for a location but the lack of County owned property is a big obstacle in recruitment. Faulkenberry and Masters cited job creation and widening the tax base as reasons to move forward with the project. Some citizens countered the need for jobs that pay a livable wage with the desire to leave the area a bedroom community, noting open avenues for employment in adjoining counties.

As to the cost of the project, Jefferson County Commissioner Baxley who represents the 3rd District inquired if there were round numbers available beyond the purchase price of the property which is around $1.9 million dollars. Masters and the representatives from Barge, Waggoner, Sumner &Cannon stated that no numbers have been put together. Questions also came from the public on the potential cost of the project but the consultants declined to answer, stating that all projects are different and come with their own parameters.

Mayor Warren of White Pine addressed concerns about water and sewer. He stated that White Pine has faced financial issues for several years and he is interested in moving the city to more firm financial footing but understands the concerns of the residents.

The time line for the project appears to be early spring, as some decision will have to be made before the option on the property expires. In answer to a question about studies that would provide more detailed assumptions on numbers of jobs that might be expected to come to the area, impact to the schools, roads,and general livability, as well as potential tax revenue, Masters said that he may or may not have that information available before making a presentation to the Jefferson County Commission, the funding body for the project. He noted that once a business commits to locating in the Commerce Park there will be multiple avenues of grants and assistance that will open up on the State and other levels. Masters said that he would like to present some funding avenues to the County Commission when he makes his presentation of the proposed Commerce Park. That presentation is expected to take place in March of 2017.

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Source: K. Depew, News Director