Red Bank Police Chief Dan Seymour: New Year, New Opportunities to Serve and Protect

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and challenges and share our vision for the year ahead. Your partnership and trust have been integral to our success, and I am deeply grateful for the strength and resilience our community has shown.

Reflecting on the Past Year

In 2024, our department focused on enhancing community engagement, reducing crime, and fostering transparency. Together, we:

• Expanded our community policing initiatives, participated in community functions and hosted a coffee-with-a-cop.
• Decreased overall violent crime, thanks to strategic patrols and collaborative efforts.
• Enhanced distracted driving education and enforcement.
• Established a Violent Crimes Detective position to enhance response times and investigative capabilities, with the position's salary funded through the state's Violent Crimes Intervention Fund (VCIF) grant.

According to the latest data from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Tennessee saw very little change in the overall crime rate in the last couple of years changing from 72.96 in 2021 to 71.73 in 2023.  The overall crime rate for the state has decreased from 82.95 in 2018.  The crime rates are based on the number of reported crimes per 1,000 persons. These trends inform our strategies and help us focus resources where they are most needed.

Additionally, the latest crime rates data for Hamilton County cities reported the following (2024 not available yet):

• Chattanooga: 122.13 in 2023 (Decreasing from 136.06 in 2018).
• East Ridge: 99.35 in 2023 (Staying consistent with light changes each year).
• Soddy-Daisy: 58.67 in 2023 (Decreasing from 65.42 in 2018).
• Collegedale: 62.26 in 2023 (Increased from 46.03 since 2018).
• Signal Mountain: 10.57 in 2023 (Decreasing from 17.32 since 2018).
• Red Bank:  56.94 in 2023 (Decreasing from 81.24 since 2018).

The overall crime rate for our community has shown a consistent downward trend over the past decade, not just since 2018. In 2014, the crime rate for Red Bank was reported at 108.57, decreasing to 56.94 in 2023.  What has caused the decreased crime rate?  While these statistics guide efforts in law enforcement, they do not provide an answer to the why.  Declines in crime rates can be attributed to various factors, either operating independently or in different combinations.  Reasons can include factors such as increased community engagement, improved policing strategies, advancements in technology, stronger partnerships between law enforcement and residents, changes in the economy, community development, demographics, employment, etc.  The reasons can go on and on.  I attribute it to the great community that we have here in Red Bank.  

The State of Law Enforcement in the United States and Tennessee

Across the United States, law enforcement continues to adapt to changing challenges. Nationwide, departments are addressing issues such as workforce shortages, the integration of technology, and the need for enhanced training in areas like de-escalation and community relations. Public trust remains a cornerstone of effective policing, and agencies are working to foster greater transparency and accountability.

In Tennessee, law enforcement agencies have made significant progress in addressing state-specific challenges, such as combating the opioid crisis and bolstering rural policing efforts. Effective collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies has been vital in overcoming these obstacles. While the broader law enforcement community faces challenges such as recruitment and retention, officer wellness, and equitable policing practices, we are fortunate to maintain a strong position with low turnover rates. This stability allows us to continue delivering consistent and effective service to our community.

While these challenges are significant, they also present opportunities to innovate and improve. By prioritizing community partnerships, advanced training, and technological solutions, law enforcement agencies are working diligently to create a safer environment for all residents.

Looking Ahead

This year, our focus will be on three key priorities:

1. Strengthening Community Partnerships: We will work hand-in-hand with residents, local businesses, and organizations to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Watch for upcoming community engagement opportunities.
2. Advancing Officer Training and Wellness: A well-trained, supported police force is essential for effective service. This year, we want to improve our training by providing more advanced training and continue to expand wellness programs for our officers.
3. Leveraging Technology and Innovation: By adopting new tools like crime software and license plate readers, we aim to enhance our ability to keep our streets safe while respecting privacy and civil liberties.

How You Can Help

Your involvement is crucial to our success. Here are a few ways to engage with us:

• Attend community engagement events.
• Report suspicious activity promptly through 911 for emergencies or 423-877-2481 for dispatch.
• Send tips or suggestions to: policeinfo@redbanktn.gov

Closing Thoughts

As your Chief of Police, I am honored to serve such a dynamic and diverse community. Together, we can make Red Bank an even safer and more welcoming place for all. Let’s move into this new year with optimism, determination, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Here’s to a safe and prosperous New Year!

 -Chief Dan Seymour

Red Bank Police Department

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Red Bank Business Printing Expressions: "Your Passion in Print"

Charity Horton, the owner of Printing Expressions, recently welcomed City Manager Martin Granum for a tour of her Red Bank business. During the visit, she shared insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the success of her print shop. From the moment you walk through the door and see the stunning Chandler & Price printing press from the 1890s, it's clear that this is a locally owned business driven by a passion for the printing industry that extends beyond merely producing a product.

Red Bank: Thriving Community; Bright Future.

As your City Manager, I am often asked to share my perspective on our city’s future. To provide insight, I took some time to outline my vision for Red Bank in 2025. This is my assessment, offered for your consideration. Thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter!

 Red Bank is a thriving city in Hamilton County and a true gem in the heart of the Chattanooga metropolitan area. It is conveniently located near many key amenities, including UTC, Chattanooga State, the airport, the Riverwalk, and the vibrant offerings of Downtown Chattanooga. With easy access to major employers and the natural beauty of Southeast Tennessee, 100% of Red Bank is prime real estate.

 Our elected leaders strongly support and advocate for the efficient and effective municipal services provided by staff. The Commission recently approved a budget that adequately funds the necessary functions of the city, with the safety of our residents and businesses at the heart of our mission. As a result, Red Bank is a safe and thriving place to live and work.

 The recent election in November 2024 resulted in a Red Bank Commission that reflects continuity with the previous leadership, indicating that voters are pleased with the direction the city has taken in recent years. With a two-year term ahead for this commission, we anticipate continued focus on the mission, vision, and goals of the city, which will facilitate the realization of our long-term objectives.

 Private investment in Red Bank underscores the desirability of living, working, and owning property here. Notable examples include: one development contributing over $50 million in capital investment with both residential and commercial elements; numerous smaller housing infill projects; renovations to existing homes and apartment complexes; several new subdivisions in the planning stages; a $7 million rehabilitation of Erlanger North Hospital to support a new medical mission; and a year-over-year increase in the median home sales price of 3.4% (from $317,500 in November 2023 to $328,450 in November 2024). The private sector clearly views Red Bank as a favorable place for investment.

 The City of Red Bank is also committed to retaining our talented employees as an 'Employer of Choice,' meaning we aim to create a workplace where people want to work. Key characteristics of such an employer include competitive pay, valued benefits, engaged employees, meaningful work, strong leadership, and a positive workplace culture. With consistently low unemployment in Hamilton County and other employers actively seeking our staff, Red Bank has experienced minimal turnover due to our commitment to being an 'Employer of Choice.' Our dedicated team of 82 experienced professionals is focused on delivering efficient and effective municipal services across various departments, including police, fire, municipal and general sessions court, planning, code enforcement, solid waste, recycling, streets, parks, stormwater management, capital projects, community engagement, and our internal services such as facilities, fleet, finance, administration, HR, risk management, and IT.

 Furthermore, our Stormwater Program has evolved into a proactive initiative, providing dedicated stewardship for the 4,000+ features that comprise our stormwater system. This effort not only beautifies our city but also ensures that our system functions effectively when rain occurs. Recently, when Hurricane Helene brushed past us, we recorded 5 inches of rain in just 24 hours, yet it resulted in a minimal impact—an important reminder of the reliability of our stormwater utility and a clear indication that our system is working properly.

We have several Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) projects underway that will enhance transportation and address safety concerns throughout the city. Recently, we completed a signalization project that upgraded traffic signals at five intersections and added pedestrian crosswalks and signals in areas where none existed. Currently, we are upgrading sidewalks in the southern part of the city to make them ADA-compliant. Additionally, we plan to replace the one-lane bridge on Lullwater Road with a two-lane bridge.

 We are also developing a ‘bike boulevard’ concept, utilizing a CMAQ grant, to connect White Oak Park to our Kids Corner and City Park. While about half of the city remains under a sewer moratorium that hinders the construction of new homes, the county sewerage agency, the WWTA, has contracts in place to rehabilitate those areas and lift the moratorium; however, it seems we are still about a year away from this relief.

 Our twelve acres of vacant land at 3715 Dayton Blvd, the former Red Bank Middle School site located in the center of the city, will remain intentionally vacant until proper community engagement and planning are completed. A decision, grounded in community feedback, will be made by the City Commission regarding the redevelopment of that site. The ongoing Comprehensive Plan and Small Area Study are nearing completion and will inform and guide these decisions over the next several months, setting the stage for renewed development and redevelopment of the city, as well as the 12-acre site, which will shape the city for the next 100 years.

 Red Bank was a recipient of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) at the federal level. This funding is being used to improve several areas of our operations that would have been otherwise beyond our reach in the short term. In addition to enhancements to our Stormwater program, we will invest these funds in upgrading Fire and Police equipment, improving information technology for expanded interdepartmental communication, community engagement, and customer service, as well as supporting various nonprofit endeavors that benefit the community.

 Outreach and community engagement now lie at the heart of the city's initiatives. Our outreach efforts have expanded significantly and now include a thriving social media presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, a monthly newsletter distributed to over 1,000 subscribers, regular press releases, digital signage along Dayton Boulevard, event-specific traditional signs and banners, and reports from all commissioners and the city manager at every commission meeting, which is live-streamed and available for viewing on YouTube at any time. Furthermore, the city has formalized engagement through eight commission-appointed citizen advisory commissions: Parks, Festivals, Nonprofits, Arts, Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA), Cemetery, Planning, and Floodplain Review.

 The City of Red Bank’s Mission, Vision, and Commission Goals: The Commission has continued the practice of holding an annual retreat to establish goals, provide guidance to staff, and focus on specific outcomes. During the Commission’s third annual retreat held on February 27, 2024, several goals were developed, with ongoing follow-up throughout the year resulting in satisfying outcomes across the board:

• Mission (should explain the purpose of a city’s being and why it exists):  
   The City of Red Bank is a safe and thriving small-town community with an engaging, transparent government that builds on our rich history, provides excellent and efficient services, and welcomes all
• Vision (builds upon the city’s mission and takes it to the next level; a desired future state):
   Red Bank strives for a vibrant and inclusive community by pursuing excellence, enhancing safety, and embracing our neighborhood character
• Goals (after an environmental analysis and applying the SWOT methodology, issues were identified and ultimately goals were set that: address the key issues, meet the mission of the City and help the City to achieve its vision):
  • Improve multi-modal transportation network
  • Develop a comprehensive plan, including fulfilling the land conversion agreement and the former Red Bank Middle School site
  • Develop parks, trails, and recreation services
  • Identify and celebrate areas of Stringer’s Branch to improve environmental stewardship
  • Update entrances to the City

Considering the following factors: an incredible location within the greater Chattanooga area, sufficient funding, consistent leadership, private investment, a skilled workforce, strong outreach and engagement efforts, and a clear focus on our mission, vision, and goals, the City of Red Bank is a thriving community with a promising future.

- Martin Granum

Red Bank City Manager 

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