The P.I.L.O.T. Ad Hoc Committee meeting held on July 17, 2025, in Shelby County, Tennessee, focused on the critical issue of local control over Payment in Lieu of Taxes (P.I.L.O.T.) programs. Committee members expressed concerns regarding proposed state legislation that could shift the authority to grant P.I.L.O.T. agreements from local governments to the state capital of Nashville.

During the meeting, a committee member highlighted the urgency of presenting recommendations for local reforms before the upcoming state legislative session. The member emphasized the importance of ensuring that any local reforms do not conflict with existing state laws governing local powers. This proactive approach aims to maintain local governance and prevent the potential loss of authority over P.I.L.O.T. agreements.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed legislation by Brent Taylor, which seeks to centralize P.I.L.O.T. granting powers in Nashville. If passed, this legislation would mean that local governments, including Shelby County, would have no say in the P.I.L.O.T. agreements affecting their communities. The committee recognized the need to advocate for increased local control to counteract this trend toward state-level decision-making.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of local input in economic development initiatives and the potential implications of state reforms on community governance. As the legislative session approaches, the committee aims to finalize its recommendations to ensure that local interests are represented and protected.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a pivotal moment for Shelby County as it navigates the complexities of local versus state control over economic development tools. The committee's efforts to advocate for local governance will be crucial in shaping the future of P.I.L.O.T. agreements in the region.