RESOLUTION NO. RS2015-1366

A resolution recognizing Lawrence Jackson for his service to the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County.

WHEREAS, Lawrence Jackson retired on January 9, 2015 from Metro Beautification; and

WHEREAS, Lawrence Jackson was hired by Ann Chapman in January of 1997 to work part-time for Metro Beautification; and

WHEREAS, Lawrence joined the Metro Beautification & Environment Commission as a volunteer Beautification Commissioner in the early 1990’s and in 1996 he chaired the commission; and

WHEREAS, from 1997 to 2005 Lawrence worked with neighborhood groups organizing clean-ups; and

WHEREAS, when Metro Beautification transitioned from Metro Parks to Metro Public Works, Lawrence was hired as a full time staff person working with neighborhood groups to conduct litter, illegal dumping and graffiti abatement in Davidson County; and

WHEREAS, in 2007 he assisted the then Metro Beautification Director, Veronica Frazier in starting the court ordered community service program in Public Works ;and

WHEREAS, in 2010 the community service program provided valuable assistance to flood victims; and

WHEREAS, there are over 5,800 travel lane miles of public roadways and rights-of-way in Nashville and Davidson County and over the last several years, on average of approximately 5000 volunteers and 5000 community service workers (caveat/explanation: some of these people volunteer more than once and community service workers are often working multiple days) and these folks pick up about 1.4 million pounds of trash each year along Nashville’s streets and roads. (This is 700 tons which is the equivalent of approximately 35 filled tractor trailer trucks as a tractor trailer can carry up to 20 tons); and

WHEREAS, Lawrence works weekends as well as in cold/hot/freezing temps, etc.; and

WHEREAS, he is a true leader, motivating and inspiring citizens to clean up and make a difference in Nashville’s neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, he has helped organize thousands and thousands of residents over the years to focus their efforts and participate in neighborhood cleanups and beautification projects that benefit the whole community; and

WHEREAS, his outstanding service and dedication over the years has contributed to MBEC and MPW earning awards and distinctions including:

o The KAB Award for Excellence
o TDOT & KAB Most Comprehensive Great American Clean up Award
o KAB President’s Circle Award
o KAB selecting Nashville as one of four cities nationally to participate in their Featured Affiliate Program; and

WHEREAS, with his retirement, Lawrence will now have the time and freedom to enjoy life without regards to wall calendars and alarm clocks; and

WHEREAS, Lawrence Jackson stands as a shining example of the remarkable good a dedicated public servant can contribute to a community; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting that the Metropolitan Council recognizes Lawrence Jackson for his work, accomplishments and timeless efforts in improving the beautification of the city and wish him much happiness on his retirement.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing Lawrence Jackson for his service to the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davison County.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Council Office is directed to prepare a copy of this Resolution to be presented to Lawrence Jackson.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Charlie Tygard

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee
Introduced:	January 20, 2015
Adopted:	January 20, 2015
Approved:	January 27, 2015
By: