The mayor, music and more

Still awaiting emails and call backs from several sources this morning, but in the meantime, here are a few Brentwood news nuggets and musings to share:

Concert kickoff canned

Lots of disappointed folks showed up, picnic baskets in hand, to hear the Nashville Symphony last night at Crockett Park. Unfortunately, the symphony cancelled. Linda Lynch, the city’s community relations director, said the concert cannot be rescheduled because the symphony's calendar is so packed.
My guess is the cool temps paired with threat of rain helped pull the plug on this always popular kickoff to the summer concert series, sponsored by BancorpSouth, CapStar Bank and Williamson Medical Center. I'm waiting to hear back from the symphony. Will let you know if I learn more.
The good news? By the time the next concert comes around -- Riders in the Sky on June 7 -- it will definitely be warmer. Sadly, will make no bets on the possibility of rain, though.

Big night at the Municipal Building

So, who will be our new mayor? We’ll find out tonight.
Unfortunately, the “election” comes before the “Comments from Citizens” portion of the agenda, so anyone with an opinion or suggestion best email the commision members today. Email addresses and phone numbers are available at the city’s much-improved website, www.brentwood-tn.org.
In Brentwood, being mayor is to a large degree a ceremonial role though it does come with added responsibilities, a $100 bump in salary a month, and the neat power of being able to marry people under Tennessee law. Who knew?
City Manager Mike Walker shared the mayor’s responsibilities with me this morning (at 6:25 a.m. no less). Brentwood’s mayor chairs the city commission meetings, signs contracts and other official documents on behalf of the city, makes appointments to certain boards and commissions specified in the charter or code of ordinances, and represents the city at ceremonial events.
The vice mayor serves as mayor in his or her absence.
As Brentwood grows beyond its bubble, and nearby cities, the county and the state work together to solve issues that affect us all – traffic and the environment come to mind – the position becomes more important and visible than ever.
After watching the commission over the past four years, and attending the four candidate forums held during this most recent election cycle, my vote – if I had one – would go to Paul Webb. Paul has ably served the city as vice mayor for the past two years, has a firm grasp on the issues facing the city, presents himself in a professional, thoughtful manner, speaks with authority, and represented the city well in last year’s forum with other Williamson County mayors and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.
New commissioner Rhea Little will also take his seat tonight after being sworn in and I’m excited to see what he brings to the table.
Hope to see you all there. 7 p.m. Municipal Building, 5211 Maryland Way.

Update on Joe Lassus
Mike Walker continues to share updates on our Planning Director Joe Lassus, who recently underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor. Here’s Mike’s report from Friday:
“…The healing is fine. His next doctor visit will be on Wednesday when he will meet with the oncologist – Dr. Moots to go over the results of the biopsy. Afterwards, they should know about the follow up treatment, rehab work, etc.”
Mike shares that Joe can eat, read the newspaper, shower and write things but is still having trouble with speaking. All positive signs.
Keep those positive prayers coming, especially on Wednesday when he goes back to the doctor.

Still to come:
Musings from the mud bowl (Iroquois Steeplechase)
Superintendent search
Music & Memories at the Martin Center

Please check back later for details!