Smithville board adopts resolution to pursue Certified Tennessee Downtown status to preserve grant eligibility

The Smithville Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted to adopt Resolution 2026‑D on June 1, formally committing the city to participation in the state’s new Certified Tennessee Downtown program. The board’s action makes Smithville eligible to apply for downtown improvement grants administered for 2026 and 2027.

A presenter identified in the record as Miss Suzanne told the board the state is replacing the prior Tennessee downtowns program and that communities must complete a new certification process to remain eligible for grants. "If we don't get the new certification, we won't be eligible for the grants like we have right now, the 300,000," she said, describing the need to produce more frequent and detailed downtown reports for the state and to participate in additional training.

The resolution, read aloud during the meeting, states that participation in the Certified Tennessee Downtown program is required for eligibility for Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development downtown improvement grants in 2026 and 2027, and it declares the city's support and commitment to participate. The resolution becomes effective immediately upon adoption, per its text.

Board members moved and seconded adoption of Resolution 2026‑D; the board voiced approval with no opposition recorded on the transcript. The presenter said the city’s staff will handle the additional reporting and administration required by the certification process, and that the commitment should not increase the council’s workload beyond approving the resolution.

Next steps noted in the meeting: city staff will pursue the state’s application and training requirements so Smithville remains eligible for competitive downtown improvement grants.