Elected in October 2021, Jason Potts has delivered on his promises to prioritize community safety while maintaining Franklin's position as one of Tennessee's safest cities with one of the lowest crime rates in the state.
Potts has been steadfast in his commitment to community safety through transformative investments in both police and fire departments. His leadership and votes resulted in a $15,000 increase in starting police officer pay – from $50,000 to $65,000 – helping Franklin attract and retain the most qualified officers. He also championed the purchase of Franklin Police Department's first armored SWAT vehicle and secured high-protection bulletproof vests for officers.
During Potts’ first term, the Franklin Fire Department became the first in the country to utilize new technology designed to improve response times. His support for enhanced Fire Department funding and training helped the Franklin achieve an ISO 1 rating for the ninth consecutive year. He has maintained close relationships with first responders through police ride-alongs and fire station visits.
Additional public safety achievements include approving funding for a vehicle replacement schedule program and installing road barrier protection systems for Main Street and Harlinsdale Park events. He was also instrumental in adding new firefighter positions. His dedication to first responders was highlighted over the two past years when he partnered to coordinate the National Night Out events with the Police and Fire Departments.
Recognizing Franklin's growth challenges, Potts has championed significant road and traffic improvements throughout Ward 3 and the broader community. Major accomplishments include:
Potts also secured approval for advanced traffic analysis software to better manage Franklin's growing transportation needs.
Standing by his conservative principles, Potts has consistently pushed for responsible spending and keeping taxes low despite rising property values. He led the successful implementation of a five-year plan for new development impact fees, ensuring developers pay their fair share for street and utility improvements.
His financial leadership has resulted in balanced budgets with strengthened reserves while Franklin maintains its strong triple-A credit rating. Potts also championed a comprehensive compensation review for all city employees and approved appropriate staffing levels to meet citizens' needs.
Potts has approved and overseen the largest expansion of Franklin's parks system in recent decades, completing construction and/or adding over 330 acres of new parkland and recreational facilities:
Additional quality-of-life improvements during Potts first term include the new City Hall now under construction, Harlinsdale Barn restoration, Liberty Park improvements, expanded greenway connectivity, and battlefield preservation efforts. Potts also demonstrated his focus to address the critical need for affordable housing in our community with his support and approval of the Community Housing Partnership to add 30 studio and 1-bedroom apartments designed for seniors (age 55+) and adults with special needs.
Beyond his alderman duties, Potts has demonstrated exceptional community commitment through various leadership roles including Housing Commission member, Beer Board Chairman, and Budget and Finance Commission member. He completed Leadership Franklin's 12-month program and serves as a certified City of Franklin Ambassador.
Potts remains actively involved in Franklin Special School District and volunteering with Centennial High School as a soccer and football game announcer. He also sponsors Young Life and Love Squared missions, demonstrating his commitment to Franklin's youth and families. He also volunteers with Rolling Hills Community Church.
While Alderman is a non-partisan position, throughout his time on the BOMA
Potts has consistently defended constitutional principles, including First Amendment rights of Franklin citizens, Second Amendment protections, and private property rights – core values that resonate with Ward 3 constituents.
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