The raw numbers show that Rutherford County continues to attract people. As one of the fastest growing counties in the State and region, Rutherford County has seen its population increase in an amazing fashion. The reality is that high growth can and probably will peak at a certain point; what happens next?

Part of the planning challenge is anticipating when, where, and how growth will occur so that county services can be matched to those needing them. As new people arrive, they bring with them different expectations on what kind of services they can expect. Recreation, sanitation, transportation, education…all manner of public and semi-public services are affected by how many users they support. 

What kinds of services do you, as a County taxpayer, believe must be initiated, enhanced, or even discontinued to satisfy your needs and the needs of the future population? Once growth levels off, as it surely will, how can the County establish a fair system of paying for existing and new services? Are impact fees the answer? Increasing the commercial tax base? Higher User fees? Property taxes?