5 The year 2021 proved Franklin is one of America’s most desirable communities characterized by a vibrant economy and a high quality of life. Money Magazine named Franklin the third best place to live in the country. Excellent schools, a highly educated workforce, and low taxes coupled with the ability to balance preservation and growth have produced a high quality of life for our community. Despite the ongoing challenges associated with the pandemic, downtown festivals, special events, and inperson meetings returned. It was an incredible year for Franklin. Our growing community has been making significant investments in infrastructure and the longawaited Mack Hatcher Parkway NW Extension was completed. The 3.1- mile segment connects Hillsboro Road to Highway 96 West and provides much needed connectivity. Fire Station 7 opened and serves as a colocation facility with Williamson County paramedic services. The new fire station is located on John Fitzgerald Drive, the street was renamed in honor of Franklin’s first full-time African American firefighter. I am also proud of how the community has come together to tell the Fuller Story. This year, the United States Colored Troops Soldier Statue was dedicated and unveiled at a place of prominence and equal nobility in the town square. The event garnered national media coverage. It was a year of change for our Board as four new Aldermen were elected. While I greatly appreciate the contributions made by the outgoing Aldermen, I am encouraged by the newly elected leaders and their dedication to the community, and I look forward to serving with them. It’s a great time to be in Franklin, Tennessee and I appreciate all the progress made in 2021. LETTER FROM THE MAYOR
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