📋️ The 2024 Mayoral Report Card! 📋️

Happy Sunday Jackson!
Buckle up because this is a long but important read!

In Today’s “HubCity Newsletter”:

• What’s The Criteria ✅

• The 10 Categories 🔟 

• What’s Next ⏩

• Weekly Events For The Kids 🛝

• Weekly Events For The Whole Family 🎡 

Read Time: 4 - 6 Minutes

We have been working on this breakdown for a few months now and we hope that you appreciate our take on this!

✅ What’s The Criteria ✅

The categories included in "The 2024 Mayoral Report Card" were selected to provide a fair and meaningful evaluation of Mayor Scott Conger's performance in areas that directly impact our community. Each category highlights key responsibilities of the mayor’s office, along with its significance to Jackson's growth and quality of life.

This evaluation is strictly professional and focuses only on Mayor Conger’s performance in office. It has nothing to do with his personal life and is not meant as a direct attack on him. If you're looking for personal jabs or insults, this breakdown is not for you.

Our goal is to foster constructive conversations about the progress and challenges our city faces—not to tear anyone down.

How the Point System Works
Each section is rated on a 10-point scale, allowing for detailed assessments, including decimal scores (e.g., 7.5). This level of granularity helps reflect both strengths and areas for improvement.

With 10 sections evaluated, the maximum possible score is 100 points. The final score is designed to give a clear picture of Mayor Scott Conger's overall performance in key areas affecting Jackson.

What Do the Scores Mean?

• 9.0 - 10.0: Excellent performance, exceeding expectations.

• 7.0 - 8.0: Good performance, meeting expectations.

• 5.0 - 6.0: Needs improvement in some areas.

• 0.0 - 4.0: Significant concerns requiring attention.

🔟 The 10 Categories 🔟

1. Economic Development 💼

In order to get a better idea of Jackson’s growth, we have to factor in Tennessee’s growth. Tennessee is becoming one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with Nashville as the beacon for this expansion.

From 2010 - 2020 Tennessee brought in 400,000 new residents and the state is expected to hit 8 million residents by 2040.Since 2020, Tennessee has received an influx of over 200,000 residents in just four years. Jackson, while smaller, continues to benefit from this statewide spillover.

There have been several new businesses like Amazon, Great Wolf Lodge and Georgia-Pacific that have either established or expanded their presence in Jackson recently, bringing in new jobs and attracting additional businesses to the area.

Mayor Scott Conger has spearheaded several projects and proposals aimed at boosting economic development, which have contributed to this positive momentum.

Final Score: 8 out of 10

2. Crime/Public Safety 🚔

This is one of the sections that will take the biggest hit. Despite law enforcement's best efforts, Jackson's crime problem remains a significant issue. In September 2024, the Jackson Police Department was fully staffed for the first time in 10 years, a major improvement. However, it will take time before these changes are reflected citywide.

Unfortunately, several incidents have left the city shaken this year, such as the tragic shooting of a toddler and another incident at a hosted event resulting in one fatality and eight injuries. These are just two of the most recent and devastating examples of the violence plaguing our city.

Final Score: 4.5 out of 10

3. Infrastructure Development 🛠️

The city’s infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with Jackson’s growth. Streets, sidewalks, and public facilities like the Civic Center are showing excessive wear, some areas are littered with potholes & spiderweb-like cracks on the streets. Several areas around the city, including rundown and abandoned buildings, have become noticeable eyesores.

One of the biggest and growing complaints from residents in recent months is by far the traffic. The worst part about this is that Tennessee has just started to see an influx in new residents moving here and this is only the beginning. If Jackson does not get a handle on its infrastructure issues, it will erase all of the progress that has been made over the last few decades.

As Tennessee continues to experience record growth and more people move here from other areas that have become far too expensive. Cities across Tennessee will become affordable options for those looking for a better more reasonably priced area to live. Addressing these infrastructure issues is critical to supporting this influx.

Final Score: 5 out of 10

4. Education Initiatives 🎓

Jackson has seen gradual improvements in public education, with the Jackson Madison County School System achieving a 94% high school graduation rate and earning a Level 5 designation for outstanding academic growth.

Programs such as JCM’s Institute of Science and Sound Technology, Liberty’s Institute of Hospitality & Tourism Management, and North Side’s Institute of American Law & Justice are helping to bridge the gap between education and career readiness.

This is leading to other institutions like Jackson State Community College, Union University, Blue Oval City and others seeing Jackson as a city worth investing in well into the future. The goal seems to be to create a top tier educated workforce that will help Jackson attract new investments and industries from around the world.

While there’s still room for growth, the progress being made cannot be overlooked.

Final Score: 6.5 out of 10

5. Fiscal Responsibility 💵

Fiscal responsibility is a polarizing topic. Some believe the city isn’t utilizing tax revenue effectively, while others think Jackson should take on more debt to support growth. A proposal to add $36 million to the city’s debt for infrastructure improvements has sparked debate but aligns with broader plans for the state’s future.

Balancing these perspectives is critical as the city navigates current challenges and prepares for future opportunities like: Hosting more sporting events, up keeping City parks, fixing and maintaining roads throughout the city are just a few of the plans for the $36 million.

Final Score: 7 out of 10

6. Environmental Sustainability 🌍

Crime, litter, and pollution often go hand in hand, and Jackson is no exception. Areas along the 45 Bypass and several retail zones are frequently littered with trash. Programs like Keep Jackson Beautiful and Keep My Hood Good address these issues, but more efforts are needed to change human behavior—a daunting yet essential task.

Many of these areas are facing deeper issues within their communities that may call for leaders in those areas to take a bigger role in asking the community to step up to the plate when it comes to taking care of their own communities.

Final Score: 5.5 out of 10

7. Greater Vision 🔭

Mayor Scott Conger has brought fresh, innovative ideas to the table, embracing cryptocurrency and envisioning Jackson as an entertainment destination are just a few of the ideas that have come to light.

As one of the youngest mayors ever elected in Jackson, his forward-thinking approach aligns with Tennessee’s rapid evolution as a hub for investment and growth. While not all plans may materialize, his willingness to adapt to change and try new things is commendable.

Some residents may not share the vision for what Jackson could be and that’s ok but people cannot live in the past and expect a brighter future.

Final Score: 8 out of 10

8. Housing and Urban Development 🏠

Jackson faces significant housing challenges, from affordability concerns to issues with slumlords in low-income areas. While new homes and apartments are being built to attract wealthier residents, this development trend is leaving average and low-income families with fewer options, making the city less accessible to those who already call it home.

It’s understandable that Jackson aims to attract high-net-worth individuals moving from larger, more expensive cities due to cost, crime, political reasons or other factors. However, it’s crucial not to neglect the needs of current residents. Ignoring these communities risks eroding the heart and soul of the city, transforming it into something longtime residents may no longer recognize or love.

This rating reflects the housing challenges disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income residents. Addressing these issues will be vital to preserving Jackson's character and ensuring its growth benefits everyone.

Final Score: 6.5 out of 10

9. Community Engagement & Transparency 🤝

Mayor Scott Conger has made strides in accessibility, offering online Q&As, city hall meetings, and one-on-one scheduling options. As Jackson’s population grows, efforts to include new residents in city activities have fostered a sense of unity and adaptability.

This becomes one of the key ways to create loyalty among residents! When people feel connected, you tend to get reelected! They feel connected to the city, its leaders, the activities, events and the overall culture of the city.

Final Score: 7 out of 10

10. Cultural and Recreational Development 🎉

Jackson’s rich history continues to inspire events that preserve its legacy while paving the way for a bright welcoming future. The city hosted numerous high-profile events this year, including the International Art & Food Festival, Comic Con, and Baby Fest Kidsplosion, that resulted in massive turnouts. These efforts are helping to build a cultural foundation for future generations.

Just like a house is just a building, a city is just a collection of buildings and the people within the city are what makes it feel like a place you want to be. Jackson is slowly but surely striving to create a little bit of something for everyone. With projects like Great Wolf Lodge under construction, the future of Jackson looks like something that everyone can take part in.

Final Score: 7 out of 10

Total Score: 65 out of 100

This breakdown reflects both the progress Jackson has made and the challenges that remain, providing a balanced overview of our city’s growth and development under Mayor Scott Conger’s leadership.

If you agree or disagree feel free to let us know in our poll below and don’t forget to check out next week’s list of curated events happening in and around the Hub City!

⏩ What’s Next? ⏩

As Jackson continues to evolve, the choices we make today will shape the city we see in 2025 and beyond. From tackling housing challenges to building a stronger infrastructure and fostering a thriving community, every initiative has the potential to transform our city’s future.

With rapid growth comes both opportunity, new challenges and responsibility. The goal should be to create a sense of togetherness, so new residents can partake in the standards that we hold. By navigating these challenges, we can all ensure Jackson becomes a city we’re all proud to call home.

Monday, December 30th

Story Time 📖
Date: Monday, December 30th
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:Main Library
Price: Free

Tuesday, December 31st

Early New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop 🎊
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Location: Ritz Magic Wheels
Price: $9.99 (Online)
Ages: 12 & Under
Additional Details: This Early New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop Is Recommended For Kids 12 & Under! Bring The Kids Out To Have A Good Time & Have Them In Bed At A Good Time!

New Years Eve Pokemon Trading Club 🎉
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: Downtown Library
Additional Details: Meetup With Other Pokemon Enthusiasts To Talk, Make New Friends, Trade Pokemon Cards & Have Fun.

Wednesday, January 1st

Festival Of Lights 💡
Date: Wednesday, January 1st
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: $10 Per Car

Thursday, January 2nd

Escape Room - Santa’s Getaway Cabin 🧑‍🎄
Date: Thursday, January 2nd
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Location: 731 Escape
Price: Check For Price (Must Reserve)
Additional Details: This Will Be The Perfect Weekend Getaway To Save Christmas! Help Find Santa’s Magical Key To His Sleigh, Without It Santa Can’t Deliver Christmas Presents!

Friday, January 3rd

Festival Of Lights 💡
Date: Friday, January 3rd
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: $10 Per Car

Saturday, January 4th

Giant Aggravation Game❗
Date: Saturday, January 4th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Beech Bluff Recreation Center
Price: $4.00
Additional Details: Become One With The Board As You Participate In A Giant Game Of Aggravation! Come Ready For Snacks & A Good Time!

Sunday, January 5th

Monday, December 30th

American Sign Language Class 👌
Date: Monday, December 30th
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Downtown Library
Price: Free
Ages: All Ages Welcome

Story Time 📖
Date: Monday, December 30th
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:Main Library
Price: Free

Tuesday, December 31st

Early New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop 🎊
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Location: Ritz Magic Wheels
Price: $9.99 (Online)
Ages: 12 & Under
Additional Details: This Early New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop Is Recommended For Kids 12 & Under! Bring The Kids Out To Have A Good Time & Have Them In Bed At A Good Time!

2025 Midnight New Year's Eve Balloon Drop 🎊
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 7:30 PM - 12:00 M
Location: Ritz Magic Wheels
Price: $9.99 (Online)
Ages: 13 & Up
Additional Details: Here’s To A Night To Remember! We Will Be Skating & Having Fun Until Midnight!

New Years Eve Pokemon Trading Club 🎉
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: Downtown Library
Additional Details: Meetup With Other Pokemon Enthusiasts To Talk, Make New Friends, Trade Pokemon Cards & Have Fun.

Midnight Lights: Sky Murals Over Downtown 🎇
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 11:30 PM
Location: Downtown Jackson
Price: Free Entry
Additional Details: The Perfect Event To End The Year! Bring Your Family, Friends Or Special Someone To Downtown Jackson. There Will Be Delicious Food, Live Music & Fun Festive Activities. 

The Grinch Takes Over Pyro’s(Final Day)🍕
Date: Tuesday, December 31st
Time: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Location: PYRO'S
Price: Free Entry
Additional Details: Be Sure To Spread The Word, Until Everyone Has Heard!  The Grinch Will Be A Pyro’s Pizza!  The Location Will Be Transformed Into The Magical Land Of Whoville! So Get Ready To Experience The Sights, Sounds, & Tastes Of Whoville!

Wednesday, January 1st

First Hike Of 2025 🥾
Date: Wednesday, January 1st
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Middle Fork Bottoms State Park
Price: Free
Additional Details: Join Us At Middle Fork Bottoms For The First Hike Of The Year!

Festival Of Lights 💡
Date: Wednesday, January 1st
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: $10 Per Car

First Hike Of 2025 🥾
Date: Wednesday, January 1st
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
Price: Free
Additional Details: Get Ready For Our First Hike Of The Year At Pinson Mounds!

Thursday, January 2nd

Festival Of Lights 💡
Date: Thursday, January 2nd
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: $10 Per Car

Escape Room - Santa’s Getaway Cabin 🧑‍🎄
Date: Thursday, January 2nd
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Location: 731 Escape
Price: Check For Price (Must Reserve)
Additional Details: This Will Be The Perfect Weekend Getaway To Save Christmas! Help Find Santa’s Magical Key To His Sleigh, Without It Santa Can’t Deliver Christmas Presents!

Friday, January 3rd

January Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Friday, January 3rd
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry

Festival Of Lights 💡
Date: Friday, January 3rd
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Pugh Bourne Park
Price: $10 Per Car

Saturday, January 4th

Giant Aggravation Game❗
Date: Saturday, January 4th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Beech Bluff Recreation Center
Price: $4.00
Additional Details: Become One With The Board As You Participate In A Giant Game Of Aggravation! Come Ready For Snacks & A Good Time!

January Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Saturday, January 4th
Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry

Sunday, January 5th

January Hub City Flea Market 🛍️
Date: Sunday, January 5th
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Jackson Fairgrounds
Price: Free Entry