Haywood County Residents Divided on Government
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BROWNSVILLE, Tenn. — Residents in Haywood County are divided on the type of government they want to lead them. The polls are now open for voters to decide if they want a metro government or city-county government. Freddy Smith, a local business owner, is against a consolidated government and has been vocal in voicing his opposition. “I want people to really look at it and see that we do not gain anything from a metro government,” Smith said. Since early voting began last Wednesday, Smith and a group of other residents have spent hours each day handing out brochures to passing drivers, all with the same message: Say no to metro government. Smith said he fears it’s too much government in less people’s hands. He also is concerned that taxes may go up. It’s something Michael Banks, the county’s attorney said isn’t true. Banks believes this type of government is beneficial and more economical. “It’s more efficient and requires a lot more accountability,” Banks said. According to county officials, this is at least the second time they’ve attempted to consolidate the government, but their plans have never made it this far. With the early voting deadline set to close May 1, election commission officials said they’re expecting more voters; and one thing is clear, the fate of the metro government is in the hands of Haywood County voters.
