Fairview Commissioners Press Economic Development Officer for Measurable Results

The Fairview Board on Tuesday pressed the city’s economic development officer for concrete, measurable results and updates on grants and recruitment efforts.

Patty Carroll, who serves as Fairview’s economic development officer, briefed the board on recent outreach — including a trip to Minnesota and participation in the Governor’s GovCon event — and said a prospective headquarters could bring about 50 jobs to Fairview, roughly 25 of them local. She also reported quarterly building-permit increases and ongoing grant-seeking work.

Several commissioners requested more specific, outcome-oriented reporting. Commissioner Roberts said the department’s work should translate into tangible benefits and measurable goals; he asked for grant-status updates (including TDEC local parks and TDOT transportation planning grants) and a clear narrative about revenue trends. Commissioner Buffalini challenged the program’s return on investment, stating, “In 2 years, we’ve seen 0 return on investment.” Carroll and other supporters pointed to recruitment activity, the interstate lighting project and pending developments as evidence of progress and said staff would present a proposed 'Invest Fairview' workshop to align the board on priorities.

Carroll said she will supply more detailed documentation and suggested a board workshop to set specific goals the department should pursue and track. City Manager Tom Daugherty said staff would schedule a workshop and that economic development reporting would be refined to show outcomes and actionable next steps.

The board did not make any formal policy changes at the meeting but directed staff to return with more granular metrics and a proposed timeline for Invest Fairview and grant updates.