As a strong believer in conservative principles of limited government, economic growth and responsible investment, I want to highlight two recent developments that exemplify smart, strategic public policy.
First, Mark Ezell, Tennessee’s Commissioner of Tourist Development, recently presented to the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce the impressive impact of tourism on Sumner County. According to the latest report, tourists spent $216 million in our county, generating over $13 million in state taxes and $8.7 million in local taxes. This equates to tax savings of approximately $295 per household in Sumner County.
For every dollar the state invests in tourism, the return is between $10 and $12. This is a clear example of how targeted investments can yield significant returns without increasing the size of government.
Second, I want to commend the City of Gallatin for approving a $1.5 million grant to support public infrastructure for the Westside Markets development. This is a prudent public-private partnership — where the city invests in roads, utilities and access improvements that will remain publicly owned and provide long-term benefits for the entire community.
This one-time investment is unlocking over $60 million in private development, projected to create 350 direct jobs and support an additional 112 indirect positions — totaling 462 jobs and $20.4 million in annual wages. Once operational, the retail center is projected to generate $1.8 million annually in sales tax revenue and over $435,000 in property taxes between the city and county.
Importantly, the city’s initial investment is projected to be fully recouped through increased tax revenues within just two years — all without raising taxes on residents. These dollars will go toward our schools, first responders, infrastructure and public services — keeping property taxes among the lowest.
These are the types of initiatives conservatives should champion: low-risk, high-return investments that expand our tax base, create jobs, and strengthen our community without growing the size of government.