Q&A with Spring Hill Ward 2 Candidates: Greg Groninger

What is your public service experience?

I have never held a public service position as primary employment. Previously in private legal practice, I served as a court appointed attorney as necessary. I am currently an assistant track coach for Thompsons Station Middle School and have extensive volunteering experience.

What is your private sector experience?

I have been a practicing attorney for over 20 years. Relevant areas include representing Homeowners’ Associations and Condominium Owners’ Associations. I advised and advocated for those boards in interfacing with various municipalities and the different levels of government. I worked closely with my clients relating to rezoning, planning, and development. I also represented them in litigation against developers for breach of warranty/negligent construction claims. I also advised them in corporate governance and duties and responsibilities as a member of a Board of Directors.

What are the biggest needs or top concerns for your ward?

Ward 2 (and the city of Spring Hill) has 3 focused needs that need to be balanced against economic growth and development: traffic easing and decongestion, an updated water and sewer treatment system, and a state-of-the art library.

What is your take on continued private development within the city?

Generally, I support private development in the city, but it needs to be responsible development. The most effective driver of economic growth and prosperity is the free market, rather than government restriction. Private development enhances the overall quality of a suburban environment. However, the success of development only works if it provides what people want at competitive prices. Current residents want slowed residential growth, but want lateral development (e.g. more parks, more entertainment, more retail, more business, etc.).

The current tension between these current residents and potential residents who want affordable housing. The delicate dance BOMA must partake in is balancing current and future market demands with enhancing the quality of life for residents. At heart is a pull between conserving the charm and history that has made Spring Hill so attractive and the uncontrolled growth that is eroding the same.

What do you think the city needs to be doing to improve its infrastructure (power, water, roads, etc.)?

Improvements to essential city infrastructure — such as power, water, and roads — should be approached with a focus on efficiency and limited government intervention. Private companies, when incentivized properly, are more likely to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and provide high-quality services in areas like electricity, water distribution, and road maintenance. In reality, public-private partnerships are the most pragmatic answer — the government can provide initial funding or regulatory framework, but private companies carry out the work with incentives tied to performance and efficiency. Water systems might be more effective if there are incentives to improve conservation and distribution.

As water is the main issue, the city is on the right track with Project SWIFT and the recent decision to purchase 100+ acres for a reservoir. Traffic-wise, simply widening the roads will not accomplish much to alleviate traffic patterns. Careful planning, with anticipated growth in mind, can solve traffic problems before they start. As new residential and non-residential developments come online, concurrent road development and common sense in traffic impact will go a long way.

Which mayoral candidate are you supporting?

I am voting for Matt Fitterer. Spring Hill must transition into a fully functioning city that stands apart from Franklin and Columbia and possess its own identity. I believe Matt has the vision to make this happen. I have not heard a convincing vision from other candidates.

If elected, how would you work alongside a mayoral candidate who you did not support?

I pride myself on being able to find common connection with my opponents. While I may have strong ideological convictions, collaboration is the driving force in democracy. I would approach a candidate I did not support by focusing on shared goals. I prioritize civility and respect in order to have productive dialogue to build trust. I do not like the term “compromise.” I prefer collaboration. Collaboration requires two opposing sides to work together to solve a problem or a set of problems. Additionally, if elected, I would gather public support for my views to pressure opponents. Finally, I excel in establishing personal relationships even if they don’t share my political views. I can separate personal relationships from policy disagreements and successfully negotiate with anybody.