Residents speaking during public comment told the Trousdale County Utility Board on Oct. 28 that several recent subdivision approvals were made without on-site fire protection, and asked the board to consider the implications for fire flow and public safety.

One resident referenced Maple Leaf Green Top as an example of a subdivision approved without on-site fire protection. Board staff responded that hydrants are required as part of a developers plan when the number and layout of lots trigger a hydrant requirement, and that hydrant installation is generally the developers expense. "When they create a plan and they have so many lawns, then they're required to bring in a fire hydrant...the developer's expense," a staff speaker said.

Tom and Sherry Swirls (names as pronounced in the transcript) and other residents raised questions about a specific hydrant installation tied to a seven-lot sale; staff said the hydrant is still on the list and that the developer is responsible for installing a hydrant when required by the approved plan.

Why it matters: Fire hydrant placement and fire-flow capacity affect public safety and the ability of first responders to protect property. If subdivisions are recorded or approved without required fire protection, that can create risks and require follow-up enforcement or developer remediation.

What remains unresolved: The board did not take enforcement action at the meeting; residents were informed that developers are required to install hydrants per approved plans and that staff will follow up on specific cases.