On the issues: Clarksville City Council candidates on road improvements, rezoning requests, parks

Clarksville Now is holding video forums and written Q&As for each contested race, giving candidates a chance to weigh in on the issues. Here are the candidates for Clarksville City Council.

CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The city and state General Election is coming up Nov. 5, with early voting starting Oct. 16. On the ballot are City Council races, state House and state Senate races, Congressional races and the presidential election.

To help voters with their decisions, Clarksville Now is holding video forums and written Q&As for each contested race, giving candidates a chance to weigh in on the issues. Here are the candidates for Clarksville City Council. (Note: Responses edited only for length.)

Ward 3

The Ward 3 candidates are Carlos Peters and Josh Wikholm.

Roads and sidewalks: What are your priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks, and how do you propose paying for them? (100 words or less)

Carlos Peters: We must focus on improving our current roads by widening them where possible. Sidewalks are a major safety concern with the way our city is growing. A few years ago Clarksville-Montgomery County School System increased the parent transportation area of responsibility which required more students to walk to school. The CMCSS change did not include creating sidewalks for students to walk safely to and from schools. The City of Clarksville saw the need and over the past few years has been adding sidewalks at the City Tax Payer’s expense. The City of Clarksville’s 2020+ Transportation Plan includes the multi-year plan.

Josh Wikholm: I would say roads and sidewalks are of the highest priority to me. Considering the lack of sidewalks in the ward and how dangerous walking home from places like Kenwood or Heritage park. I propose paying partially though the mayor’s 2020 plan, and partially through redirecting funds from wasteful spending.

Rezoning requests: As Clarksville grows, zoning requests frequently force a choice between sprawl and infill. How do you define smart growth when it comes to housing? (100 words or less)

Peters: We need to focus on infill development where infrastructure is already located. Zone change requests need to be looked at closely to determine if the current road system can handle the additional traffic. We need to keep the R-6 single-family residential zoning classification in the City Center part of the city. We need to ensure that businesses do not encroach on neighborhoods and that we maintain separation for a good life balance. We must ensure that affordable housing is available to our citizens. Clarksville is growing and we have younger generations moving into our city. We must ensure that housing is affordable so that we can sustain our growth.

Wikholm: Smart Growth means proper planning prior to a development being approved. We must pay attention to the regional planning commission when they vote down a development, and not approve a development just for the sake of developing. The needs of everyone should be weighed against a rapidly growing Clarksville. That does not mean all developments should be rejected. Common sense applies here.

Parks and quality of life: What are your priorities when it comes to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, sports fields and other quality of life amenities in Clarksville? (100 words or less)

Peters: Greenspace is an absolute necessity for the health and wellness of our community. We have to ensure that the Greenway and the Blueway are available to everyone and that we expand the greenspace in Ward 3. We have minimal parks and our recreation centers are a little dated and need an update for today’s generation of children. By doing this there will be more positive activities for our children.

Wikholm: Parks and quality of life are very high on my list of priorities. Many people here are unable to drive, and cannot reach the closest park which is Heritage park. Infrastructure needs to be installed to allow people to reach these places. We must keep our parks and waterways clean.

Other issues: Is there another issue you’d like to weigh in on? (100 words or less)

Wikholm: I have run this campaign on preserving green spaces, and expanding youth programs. This is in accordance with my philosophy that “an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.” Giving youth affordable activities will lead to lower juvenile crime rates.

Ward 5

The Ward 5 candidates are incumbent Ambar Marquis and Randall McDonald. McDonald has not responded or provided an announcement with photo.

Roads and sidewalks: What are your priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks, and how do you propose paying for them?

Ambar Marquis: We have numerous planned road projects that need prioritization and streamlining. It’s essential to identify critical areas for sidewalk development and require all new housing to include sidewalks. Funding can come from a combination of local budgets, state and federal grants, and partnerships with private developers. Additionally, many underdeveloped lots with low property taxes can be rezoned for higher use, significantly increasing revenue. For instance, in one specific case, a property transitioning from AG to C2 could have shifted from generating $400 annually to nearly $200,000. This add revenue to the city budget can then contribute to funding necessary infrastructure improvements.

Rezoning requests: As Clarksville grows, zoning requests frequently force a choice between sprawl and infill. How do you define smart growth when it comes to housing?

Marquis: Smart growth should aim to create a livable, sustainable community that balances economic development with quality of life. We should be encouraging higher density and mix-use neighborhoods to reduce sprawl and create vibrant communities. Neighborhoods should be designed to be pedestrian friendly, with accessible public spaces and amenities. Public transit options should be integrated with housing to reduce reliance on cars, help with traffic congestion and improve accessibility. Preserving open spaces, and minimizing environmental impacts should be prioritized. We must ensure a diverse range of housing options to accommodate different income levels. We must plan for future growth not just the present needs.

Parks and quality of life: What are your priorities when it comes to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, sports fields and other quality of life amenities in Clarksville?

Marquis: We need to continue to develop a cohesive network linking parks, trails for walking biking and jogging (greenway), and the blueway to enhance mobility and encourage outdoor activity. North Clarksville needs diverse recreational opportunities for all ages. I believe in maintaining and expanding green spaces, improving facilities, and creating safe, engaging areas for community gatherings. Overall, the focus should be on creating well maintained environments that enrich residents’ lives and promote health and well-being.

Other issues: Is there another issue you’d like to weigh in on?

Marquis: Fiscal responsibility is essential in ensuring our tax dollars effectively enhance the quality of life for Clarksville residents. I prioritize transparent budgeting processes, rigorous evaluations of funding initiatives, and strategic investments in our roads, first responders, recreational facilities and community programs. By focusing on projects that deliver tangible benefits, we can maximize resources and foster sustainable growth. Engaging residents in these decisions also helps ensure that our expenditures reflect the community’s needs and aspirations, ultimately leading to improved amenities and a vibrant, thriving city.

Ward 8

The Ward 8 candidates are Kyong Dawson, Jerry Haywood, Dwight Jemison and Faye Rennell Morales.

Roads and sidewalks: What are your priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks, and how do you propose paying for them?

Kyong Dawson: Safety on the roadways and for people who travel on or alongside them is a serious concern. We have two schools in the ward and one immediately adjacent, with little to no sidewalk access. We should utilize the established priority table in planning these school zones, not ignoring them. Much of Tiny Town in the ward is now zoned commercial with residential behind, which will affect traffic. Assess traffic flows now, not afterward, anticipating traffic mitigation concerns. Prioritize funding needs for the best bang for the buck and utilize state resources as necessary for the state roads.

Jerry Haywood: My priority is to improve road safety, fix potholes, and expand sidewalks in Ward 8, especially in residential areas lacking safe pedestrian pathways. Funding can be secured through state infrastructure grants, reallocating city funds, and working with developers to share costs in new developments.

Dwight Jemison: My priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks are for safety first. The most damaged roads come first. Sidewalks in areas where they’re most needed comes first. I understand the inconvenience of the traffic for those in my ward, Ward 8. My biggest concern with this traffic is the time it takes for emergency vehicles to get through the streets when it’s only two lanes. As population continues to grow and construction of multi family communities doesn’t seem to be slowing this it’ll only get worse. I propose paying for them with revenue from events, funds put aside from companies that request permits for new projects.

Faye Rennell Morales: Roads and sidewalks are a part of the infrastructure problems we face throughout the city and county in Clarksville. Both sidewalks and roads are equally important, Sidewalks are pathways for our pedestrians, increase community walkability and provide a safe path to crossing streets and roads. Widening our roads would allow more lanes and a better flow of traffic. The City of Clarksville have five tools that can be used to pay for such, Public Private Partnerships proposed by Gov. Bill Lee, state infrastructure banks, fuel taxes, special taxes and motor vehicle registration. Use Clarksville funding from Pres. Bidens Bipartisan Initiatives for Infrastructure.

Rezoning requests: As Clarksville grows, zoning requests frequently force a choice between sprawl and infill. How do you define smart growth when it comes to housing?

Dawson: Involve the community with potential decisions keeping them informed. With this growth, we should work toward providing varying housing choices, and mixed land use. Afford the community the ability to get around safely by walking, bicycling, or other transportation options. Encourage new areas to have open recreation areas designed into the area and a desire to want to be there.

Haywood: Smart growth balances sprawl with infill by promoting higher-density housing in developed areas while preserving green spaces. It requires zoning that supports mixed-use developments and affordable housing near essential services, reducing the strain on infrastructure and preventing overburdening existing neighborhoods.

Jemison: I define smart growth as taking into consideration that growth is going to happen regardless. We can do it from a positive position and make plans and build in a manner that makes self sufficient communities that minimalists the need to travel far for necessary goods or services. I also define it as an opportunity to utilize preexisting empty buildings for housing.

Morales: First of all, we need good structural and mechanical engineers in Clarksville. I define such growth as the need to go back to the good ole civil engineering practices of planning and designing a home. Studies show crawl spaces are better than building your foundation on bricks. Yes, brick is lease expensive in the beginning put serious problems will most likely require breaking up the brick. Crawl spaces you can crawl under and repair the problem. High Density Housing has its advantages such as lower cost to maintain infrastructure, less traffic, increase property value and reduces environmental destruction. “HDH” can also foster vibrant and diverse communities.

Parks and quality of life: What are your priorities when it comes to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, sports fields and other quality of life amenities in Clarksville?

Dawson: Ward 8 has one park that is secluded and cannot be enjoyed in the evening. Negotiations are ongoing for the Speedway property, but that is potentially years out as a capital project. The Blueway and Greenway should be better connected to afford cross-town abilities for those who would like a bicycle ride or long walk. The city purchased a large property off Exit 8 and all has gone quiet on that, so hard to say. Families want things to do outside together, and the sports fields are packed now as they are.

Haywood: Expanding parks, adding sports fields, and enhancing the Greenway and Blueway systems are key to improving community well-being. I want to ensure equitable access to recreational spaces by increasing funding for park development and encouraging partnerships with local organizations for maintenance and expansion.

Jemison: Clarksville’s park system has the opportunity to lead the way by creating a resilient public infrastructure for the future of a growing city. With the diverse population and lifestyle there needs to be just as much diversity in our parks. My priorities are to preserve what we have and build on it while utilizing the ideas of those who live here to improve on the features. Other cities around us offer a water park run by the city. I want to bring something like that here to keep citizens & revenue here.

Morales: Playgrounds in our wards for our children and youth centers for our youth. We can add more amenities to both Greenway and Blueway, as well as to our already existing parks and sport fields that will benefit people of all ages. Clarksville has a multitude of Sports fields such as Heritage Park, Swan Lake Sports Complex, Edith Pettus Park and the list goes on to include the new Exit 8 Athletic Complex. Access to good parks and recreation facilities leads to healthy lifestyles for people of all ages. Numerous studies have exemplified and emphasized the importance and impact of outdoor exercise on deceasing various illnesses.

Other issues: Is there another issue you’d like to weigh in on?

Dawson: We truly need to move traffic and look at the people’s quality of life in this. No one wants to sit in traffic any longer than necessary. As stated above, Tiny Town in Ward 8 has a large portion that is zoned commercial, which will bring heavier traffic. Kroger is now building at Needmore and Tiny Town, possibly Buc-ee’s not too far away, and then the housing developments. Clarksville has been far too reactive to these types of concerns. It is time to be proactive and doing.

Haywood: Public safety is crucial, particularly in providing adequate street lighting and increasing the number of fire stations. I also want to address disparities in first responder salaries, ensuring our police and firefighters are paid fairly to retain talent and keep our community safe.

Jemison: Back in July 2024, Clarksville was also named one of the best places to live in the by USA Today. This is a great thing but not when it comes at the expense of the people who have called Clarksville home already. The unhoused community is growing. It’s an issue that continues to go un-addressed. Clarksville doesn’t have a suitable shelter that provides temporary housing for the unhoused. We observe a new group out here unhoused. It’s the families now. Middle class families. I plan to call on our city officials to change this. Skid row is what it looks like when we ignore this.

Morales: City Council members are not the overseers of school districts, but if I could address a concern, it would be Minority Representation in Our Schools. 1. Diverse Representation: Staffing should represent the student body. 2. Nepotism: Hiring of Friends, Family Members, etc. overlooking qualified educators and Veterans with Preference. 3. Overcrowded Classrooms: Justifiable for Private/Charter Schools=Small Classrooms. NOTE: At the end of the school year, CMCSS reported millions of dollars not spent. Such funds remained from the Special Needs department. There’s no justifiable reason to have millions of dollars not used in the Special Needs department in Clarksville Montgomery County.

Ward 9

The Ward 9 candidates are Jimmy Brown, Bridget Childs, Rodney Davis and Keymonta Epps.

Roads and sidewalks: What are your priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks, and how do you propose paying for them?

Jimmy Brown: We need to prioritize areas impacted by high pedestrian traffic and areas within one mile of schools. The increase in pedestrian fatalities is very concerning to me and creating a safe walkable community is important. The City Council raised taxes in June 2021, specifically to create funding for roads and sidewalks. As a city council person I will ensure these funds are being used for sidewalk projects and used in a fiscally responsible manner.

Bridget Childs: My priority is ensuring safe, accessible roads and sidewalks for all. In Ward 9, sidewalks are a major need, especially near schools and high-traffic areas. I will advocate for budget prioritization toward infrastructure improvements, focusing on areas that lack safe pedestrian access. To fund these projects, I support exploring grants, state funding, and public-private partnerships, as well as utilizing available city resources more efficiently. Safe roads and sidewalks benefit everyone, enhancing mobility and reducing accidents, and we must work creatively to find solutions without overburdening taxpayers.

Rodney Davis: Safety, accessibility, and efficient transportation across Clarksville. I would focus on building new roads while maintaining and repairing existing infrastructure to ensure they are safe and accessible for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. I would propose to pay for it by bringing in a new attraction such as a Water Park, Aquarium or Theme Park that will attract more tourists, which intern will bring in more tax revenue. This will not only provide funding for our roads and infrastructure; but it will also help lower the property taxes and take the burden off of homeowners.

Keymonta Epps: The lack of sidewalks and the need for widened roads are of utmost importance in Clarksville. Safety of our children and pedestrians during peak traffic times can be prioritized by adding more sidewalks and enhancing walkability around the city. We could look in to public-private partnerships to leverage private investment in infrastructure development. Grants from federal and state programs should also be pursued vigorously to supplement funding efforts.

Rezoning requests: As Clarksville grows, zoning requests frequently force a choice between sprawl and infill. How do you define smart growth when it comes to housing?

Brown: Smart growth is creating a community that fosters work life balance. Developing housing in areas where residents can have shorter commute time to work. In turn, this will help reduce traffic volume throughout the city. Smart growth also includes creating affordable housing options and studying the impact a new housing development will have on the current infrastructure.

Childs: Smart growth means balancing development with long-term sustainability, focusing on infill to maximize existing infrastructure rather than promoting urban sprawl. It involves creating diverse, affordable housing options within established neighborhoods, while protecting green spaces and minimizing traffic congestion. Smart growth also encourages mixed-use developments, allowing residents to live near work, schools, and amenities, reducing the need for long commutes. By prioritizing walkability, public transportation, and efficient land use, we can ensure Clarksville grows in a way that supports both our community’s needs and our environment. Thoughtful zoning is key.

Davis: As Clarksville grows, I believe smart growth when it comes to housing should focus on balanced, sustainable development that avoids sprawl and prioritizes infill. This means encouraging higher-density, mixed-use projects in already developed areas, rather than continuing to expand outward. Key elements of smart growth include promoting walkable, transit-oriented communities, preserving green spaces and farmland, and ensuring new housing is affordable and accessible. Zoning policies should incentivize developers to build in a way that enhances livability, reduces environmental impact, and meets the diverse housing needs of the community. A thoughtful, collaborative approach to rezoning can help Clarksville manage growth in a responsible manner.

Epps: Smart-growth is something I define as putting sustainable land use to the top while promoting the safety and quality of the community. Infill development allows for the efficient use of existing infrastructure around the city and resources. This could slow the overdevelopment of residences while also providing affordable housing.

Parks and quality of life: What are your priorities when it comes to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, sports fields and other quality of life amenities in Clarksville?

Brown: For me this is a two part question. We first need to adequately maintain the current parks in the city. Some of our existing parks are in need of repair and maintenance. Secondly, adding additional parks will be based on the needs of our community. As we grow as a city, we need to logistically plan our parks to best serve our citizens.

Childs: My priority is expanding access to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, and sports fields to improve the overall quality of life for all Clarksville residents. Parks and outdoor spaces are essential for physical and mental well-being, fostering community connection, and providing safe areas for recreation. I support investments in maintaining and upgrading existing facilities, while expanding the Greenway and Blueway to connect more neighborhoods and encourage healthy lifestyles. Ensuring these amenities are accessible, well-maintained, and inclusive of all ages and abilities will help strengthen our community and make Clarksville a more vibrant place to live.

Davis: My priorities are to enhance accessibility, promote environmental sustainability, and foster community engagement. I would focus on maintaining and expanding the existing network of parks and trails, ensuring they are well-connected and accessible to all residents. Investing in green spaces, natural habitats, and outdoor recreation areas would be a priority, as these amenities improve physical and mental well-being. I would also work to develop new sports fields, community centers, and cultural attractions that bring people together and improve the overall livability of Clarksville. Funding these initiatives through a combination of public attractions, private, and grant sources would be crucial.

Epps: Our parks should be valued and cared for. Taking pride in our parks by keeping them clean and efficient should be some focus. Our parks need to be more accessible to those with disabilities. I believe the city should invest in equipment that allows everyone to enjoy. We should extend the walking trails as well to those who cannot access them if there is no transportation.

Other issues: Is there another issue you’d like to weigh in on?

Brown: Public Safety. Just the other day our Police Chief said they need more officers. We have to make sure our Police and Fire Departments have the staffing and equipment they need to help them do the job to protect us. Having the staffing and equipment can also help with traffic flow by clearing crashes faster.

Epps: Other issues I believe need attention is the need for more resource or community centers around the city. With community centers in more accessible areas this can allow for more community engagement, and decrease crime rates in those areas. These centers could also assist with families needing more services not provided in their community like childcare or after school care.

Ward 12

From the left, Dave Bilan, Zoyie Jackson and Keri Lovato. (Contributed)

The Ward 12 candidates are David Bilan, Zoyie Jackson and incumbent Keri Lovato.

Roads and sidewalks: What are your priorities when it comes to roads and sidewalks, and how do you propose paying for them?

David Bilan: Our streets, particularly at intersections need to be improved to reflect the increase in traffic from our growth and reduce congestion. The Clarksville Montgomery County School system doesn’t provide bus service within 1 mile for elementary students and 1 1/2 miles for middle and high school students. We need safe sidewalks for our children to walk safely to school,. The majority of funding for these improvements should come from Federal grants such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s (BIL) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) discretionary program, and State programs such as Tennessee’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).

Zoyie Jackson: Once elected, my plan is to address the concerns of Ward 12 by focusing on safety, specifically the issue of speeding in residential neighborhoods. I will work with city official on ways to improve traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety through targeted road expansions and sidewalk installations. These projects can be funded by ensuring that already allocated funds, local taxes, state and federal grants, and public-private partnerships are properly utilized, as outlined in the Transportation 2020+ plan. By working together, we can ensure that our roads and sidewalks meet the needs of our growing community.

Keri Lovato: My priority is improving road safety and reducing congestion. We’re seeing progress with the expanding Tylertown Road and the Spring Creek Parkway. These projects will help alleviate traffic in critical areas and improve connectivity. Funding will come from a combination of grants and budget allocations to ensure responsible spending without overburdening taxpayers.

Rezoning requests: As Clarksville grows, zoning requests frequently force a choice between sprawl and infill. How do you define smart growth when it comes to housing?

Bilan: Zoning is an opportunity to encourage mixed land use, combining residential, commercial and industrial construction with green space and recreational opportunities within a walk-able area. This will reduce traffic congestion, improve the appearance of the development and provide a sense of community to the neighborhood. Pleasant View Village on 41A (20 minutes from Sango) is a good example. We must also re-zone to re-vitalize our older neighborhoods to create these same conditions and provide affordable communities. We cannot abandon any section of our city, and just as importantly, not gentrify neighborhoods and push lower income people out of their homes.

Jackson: I believe that smart growth in Clarksville is balancing new development that will preserve our community’s character. I support developing empty or unused areas within the city that will bring new life to them and help prevent the city from spreading too far into undeveloped land. This approach not only creates more affordable housing but also ensures we use our existing infrastructure efficiently while keeping the unique identity of our neighborhoods still in intact.

Lovato: Smart growth balances expansion with preserving community character. I advocate for infill development that utilizes existing infrastructure while promoting denser housing near essential services. Four key factors I consider are infrastructure, public safety, gas and water resources, and the thoughts of the neighbors. Supporting walkability and reducing traffic are also crucial. Thoughtful zoning policies can sustain this growth without overwhelming our city’s resources.

Parks and quality of life: What are your priorities when it comes to parks, the Greenway, the Blueway, sports fields and other quality of life amenities in Clarksville?

Bilan: Every Ward should have a park, trail or recreational area. The Clarksville/Montgomery County Comprehensive Plan has only one Ward with no plan to have any of this: Ward 12 (my Ward). My goal will be to correct this oversight. Having parks and green space in the neighborhood improves the quality of life. Physical fitness is obvious, but being in green space improves mental health as well. A park provides space for people to meet, interact, and become a community. Needing to drive 20 minutes to go to for a walk doesn’t pass the common sense test, and shortchanges our kids.

Jackson: I feel that expanding parks and the Greenway is important to enhance the quality of life for all residents. I plan on working together with the city member to improve the recreational spaces, sports fields, and green areas not just for the residents of Ward 12 but for the city also. These amenities promote a healthier, active community and support environmental sustainability while offering residents safe, accessible spaces for recreation.

Lovato: I support Clarksville’s Parks and Recreation department. I look forward to the expansion of the Greenway and Blueway. These amenities contribute to both physical and mental well-being. I’ll advocate for improved sports fields and support initiatives that provide safe, accessible recreational spaces for all residents, ensuring we invest in enhancing the quality of life for our growing community.

Other issues: Is there another issue you’d like to weigh in on?

Bilan: We need to reform the city property tax system. State requires property tax reassessments be tax neutral, but the city rejected the new (neutral) rate and raised taxes, which violates the spirit (if not the letter) of the law. When elected I will propose an ordinance limiting tax increases to 5% in any given year, unless the city experiences a major disaster such as an earthquake, flood or tornado. This ordinance would also bar any tax increase in any year there is a property re-evaluation. Finally, the city will announce, by percentage how much taxes are being raised.

Jackson: Clarksville’s growth makes improving public transportation essential. Expanding our transit system will reduce traffic congestion and make the city more accessible for all residents, particularly in underserved areas. A more efficient, reliable transit system is crucial for economic growth and connecting people to jobs, services, and opportunities.

Lovato: Public safety remains a key concern. I am committed to ensuring our law enforcement and emergency services have the resources they need to protect our citizens. Additionally, I believe in supporting our youth through programs and mentorship opportunities, creating a thriving environment where young people can grow and succeed.

For more

Early voting will be Oct. 16-31, with Election Day voting Nov. 5. For more, go to the Montgomery County Election Commission website.

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