Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor,
The last 8 to 10 years has seen a rapid growth of development across Farragut. We have seen some great projects as well as some that have been more contentious. In 2025, the Town participated in the
National Community Survey. The survey received 538 responses resulting in a 95% Confidence Level with a 4% Margin of Error.
Overall, the community has a positive view of Farragut as a place to live with an Excellent/Good rating of 97%. This replicates other reports on Farragut being one of the Best Places to Live!
Within the survey there are a few areas of concern. Approximately 80% of participants said traffic flow on major roads is “Fair or Poor.” We all live this as we try to make a left turn off of Kingston Pike. Development is another area of concern. Approximately 60% said Land use, planning and zoning was “Fair or Poor.” Respectively, 56% and 64% of respondents also said Well-planned commercial and residential development were “Fair or Poor.” So, while our report card is good overall, we have some subjects that need attention.
Voters should ask why are our scores the way they are? To me it is decisions like three BOMA members saying NO to the Harmony Assisted Living Facility and single-family homes behind Ingles. This decision led to another school and its resulting traffic on Kingston Pike. It was not completing the Mixed-Use Town Center Substantial Public Outreach in 2018 or 2019 when the Town learned what was planned was not viable.
Instead, the BOMA took it upon themselves to change ordinances and town plans themselves. These changes gave an advantage to one landowner and developer while targeting another’s known development. Ultimately, freestanding apartments were contrary to our collective vision from 2012 and should have not been approved until the Substantial Public Outreach was done. This would’ve ensured the communities desires were incorporated into our future town center.
Voters should look at the entire record of our candidates and ask, who advocated for and voted on the developments that give us “Fair” results at best? Don’t we deserve better? As we look to update our Comprehensive Land Use Plan, we need leadership that will create a plan based on the communities’ wants, not an individual politician's vision or desires. Alex Cain is the candidate that will ensure your voice is heard!
Michael Wilson,
Farragut
