I appreciate the opportunity to address recent misconceptions regarding the Arnold Heritage and Innovation Center (AHIC) initiative. As someone who has spent years working alongside industry leaders, government agencies, and community members to strengthen Tullahoma’s economic future, I believe it’s important to clarify the intent and scope of this project.

From the beginning, the AHIC was never intended to displace any sports fields. The original concept proposed utilizing an unused softball field within Waggoner Park, with the goal of enhancing—not replacing—the park’s amenities. The vision was to create a facility that would serve the entire community, welcoming sports families, entrepreneurs, students, and tourists alike. The addition of upgraded bathrooms, a café with a patio, an eSports room, and a performance enhancement center would have made Waggoner Park a truly unique destination while preserving its core recreational purpose.

The discussion regarding baseball field relocation arose when Tullahoma’s sports leagues decided to transition from Little League to Cal Ripken baseball, necessitating adjustments to existing fields. If the new baseball field had to be moved, it would have impacted the football fields within Waggoner Park—a scenario that required further study. When Parks and Recreation presented a $3.5 million estimate to relocate the football fields, it became clear that the cost implications needed further discussion. The City has previously discussed relocating the football fields, as soil conditions have presented ongoing challenges.

Given the strong sentiment to keep Waggoner Park as it is, other locations in the region are being studied for the Arnold Heritage and Innovation Center.

However, what remains unchanged is the need for a facility that fosters innovation, workforce development, and economic resilience in the region. Across the country, military bases are investing in innovation centers to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies critical to national defense. Many supportive communities have created innovation centers to help their entrepreneurs commercialize new technology and create higher- paying jobs. Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC), the largest and most advanced aerospace testing facility in the world, has an annual economic impact of $1.1 billion on our region. As our largest employer, AEDC has a growing need for a highly skilled aerospace and defense workforce, making it only fitting that an Innovation Center be established in the region to support collaboration between industry, small businesses, and the community.

When asked to present this proposal at the City Council Study Session, it was not a unilateral idea—it was the result of three years of conversations with industry leaders, economic development professionals, academic institutions, and community stakeholders who recognize the area’s strategic importance as a hub for aerospace and defense innovation. Innovation is a key priority across all government agencies and many grants. Regarding operating costs, LaunchTN financially supports eight partners in their statewide entrepreneurial ecosystem. The AHIC would have applied to become part of that network.

As a member of the Tullahoma Area Economic Development Corporation (TAEDC), I have worked with my colleagues to attract industries and businesses that ensure long-term economic stability. Tullahoma is unique for a city of 21,000 residents, offering a diverse retail sector and a resilient business environment. Our sales tax growth reflects this success. As businesses evolve and new industries emerge, our role is to ensure that the Tullahoma area remains an attractive place for investment, innovation, and community development.

The AHIC concept was never about one person’s vision—it has always been about inspiring the next generation and leveraging Tullahoma’s unique strengths to create new opportunities for our youth, residents, and workforce. No one should be discouraged from participating in shaping the vision for our city. Progress is built on open dialogue and the courage to bring bold ideas forward. I remain committed to ensuring that Tullahoma continues to thrive, evolve, and remain prepared for the future.

Beverly Lee. Chairman of TAEDC

Tullahoma