Members of the Metro Council, I found this quote from Ben Franklin over 200 years ago, and it is my opinion Franklin knew how the system worked even then. Please review the quote several times and each time the meaning will be clearer: “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.” — Ben Franklin, April 17, 1787.
Let me state as clear as I can my position regarding our fairgrounds. This property does not belong to the mayor, or the council for that matter. It belongs to the people of Davidson County. To take something without approval of the party who has ownership is nothing short of stealing. The people of Davidson County elected each of you to represent them in the council. I do not believe there is one council representative who could truly say it is the will of the majority of the people to shut down our fairgrounds.
Council members, I read the story in The City Paper where Mike Jameson had said Metro Public Works had tried to use pressure in promoting the lease for the administration and referring to keeping yellow trucks in his district. Please do not let this type action steer you away from making the right decision. This is nothing short of extortion. Sounds to me like a stunt you would find the Mafia taking. I would have loved to have been in your position and he made that statement to me. I would have told him you better believe I would not support the administration, and I would have dared him to pull the first yellow truck out of my district. I believe he would have found out that he bit off more then he could chew.
This is my opinion but you must form your own as the final vote will be in your hands. I’m still hoping the will of the people will prevail.
Ken Jakes
Joelton, TN 37080