SJ Little League Hot Topic Of Work Session

Citizens voice concerns over South Jefferson Little League Organization
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

The Town of Dandridge’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen met on Tuesday evening to discuss items that will be potentially included in their voting meeting later this month. Prior to taking up items for discussion, Dandridge Mayor Gantte opened the floor to concerns from citizens. Four parents associated with South Jefferson Little League expressed concerns regarding scheduling issues that cut the number of games, lack of communication between the South Jefferson Little League Board and parents, questions about umpires and, most importantly, concerns regarding potential misuse of funds. Mayor Gantte stated that various misinformation regarding the Town’s involvement in the South Jefferson Little League has resulted in dissatisfaction on both the part of the Town and SJLL parents. According to Mayor Gantte, the Town of Dandridge has an ongoing fiscal commitment to the Field of Dreams that averages in excess of $150,000 per year and, despite presently having no operating agreement with SJLL or the Broncos, the Town does not pass the charge for field lighting on to the various organizations unless they are traveling teams.

The Field of Dreams was formerly owned by a group of citizens that were interested in providing play space for the local youth but ownership was passed to the Town of Dandridge when it was discovered that the possibility of grant awards was limited with private ownership. Town Administrator Peagler stated that she had requested financial information from SJLL in regard to a Tournament Agreement that was presented, but never completed, between the Town and SJLL. In the proposed agreement, which was formed in late 2013 but only just received recently from SJLL, the Town would have some responsibility in the management of tournaments, which could be financially impacting to the Town if overtime is needed to cover events. Peagler also expressed concern regarding accounting issues that could be problematic during audit time if record keeping is lax. Following discussion from both concerned citizens and the Board, citizens were advised to attempt to enact changes through SJLL Board control and that the Town has little influence on SJLL as an organization. Peagler informed the Board that her initial reaction was to rescind the tournament agreement with SJLL until a better proposal can be formed for next year. She has a meeting with SJLL representatives on Wednesday afternoon and will bring information to the full voting meeting.

Under Items for Discussion, the Board was informed that Ordinance 13-14-24 which would change the distance requirement of a public gathering place and residence in the Historic District for the Beer Application would be presented. One business owner in the area expressed his desire to be on level footing with other like establishments that do presently sell beer. Alderman Jones stated his support of the Ordinance. Also to be presented is Ordinance 13/14-26 which would adopt Historic District Guidelines for Design.

Two other Ordinances will be presented, one that would create a mixed use district to address areas that have combined purpose, such as some new developments that combine residential with doctor’s office and other possible services. The second will be the adoption of the annual budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014. Peagler stated that the certified tax rate has not, yet, come in but she anticipates having it shortly.

The Board will review a request from TDOT regarding easements for the bridge project. Town Attorney Gass will review the request and bring a recommendation to the voting meeting. The Board will consider the re establishment of a Parks and Recreation Commission to deal with recreation issues in Dandridge and a donation request from the Point Resort for the annual Shake the Lake event, which will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Dumplin Valley Summer Program.

Finally, the Board briefly discussed the loan refinancing for the DWMF and reviewed potential plans for the Framer’s Market. Peagler informed the Board that she is consulting with MTAS regarding issues concerning the Fire and Water Departments.