My public comment to the JC Commission at their Meeting on Thursday, August 7, 2025
Good evening.
I want to address the Horizon 2045 plan, which outlines our city’s path for growth over the next 20 years. This is a big deal. It will shape how we live, work, and invest here for decades. I generally support this plan because it gets many things right. But there are a few areas that still need attention and clarity from the Commission before you move forward.
As always, I have three questions.
First, the public made its priorities clear during the upfront engagement process: we want strong neighborhoods and a healthy environment. Those two came out on top. I want to reiterate that Bitcoin and crypto mining run counter to strong neighborhoods and healthy environments, and we must continue to put in place the necessary regulations to protect our neighborhoods from Bitcoin in future I2 zones.
Thus, I was intrigued to see that the Future Land Use Map only indicates plans for four industrial zones within City limits and that many current areas, like the Buffalo Mountain Industrial Park, are projected to be “employment flex.” That lines up with what the community wants.
So, my first question is this: How will you de-industrialize South Johnson City and the South Roan Corridor?
Second, there was a lot of community input in this process. Many comments were provided on the Draft Final Report and were incorporated as part of tonight’s First Reading as appendices. They tackle critical areas that need more investment, like affordable housing, parks, public art, and pedestrian and cycling safety, among many others. They also highlight several factual and editorial errors in the file.
So, my second question is: How will you incorporate these community comments and revise the final version for adoption?
Finally, this plan won’t mean anything unless it’s implemented with follow-through. We’ve all seen plans adopted, then left on the shelf or only partially implemented, with limited transparency and accountability. Clearly, that’s not what the people want. And it’s not what this moment calls for.
So, my third question is: Will you establish a transparent public process to track the plan’s implementation, especially the priorities residents supported most? And will you commit to collaborating with the public on areas that remain contentious?
In closing, this Horizon 2045 plan is a good start, but it must be more than words. It must reflect what residents value and commit the Commission to act accordingly. I hope you’ll ensure that happens.
Thank you.
