Millington Welcomes New Planning Director Amidst Rapid Growth and Development Opportunities

Millington Gears Up for Exciting Growth with New Planning Director

Millington, a charming suburb in Shelby County, is buzzing with excitement as the new appointment of planning and development director, Jared Darby, promises to usher in a transformative era for the city. Just stepping into his new role earlier this month, Darby comes loaded with experience and is ready to roll up his sleeves. And if the towering stack of application packages in his office—standing a foot and a half high—isn’t a clear indicator of the action heating up, then we don’t know what is!

A New Voice in Planning

At a time when interest in Millington is sky-high, Darby’s voice will surely be a vital component in the community’s growth dialogue. With over 24 years of planning and development experience, including previous positions in Shelby County’s government roles, he’s no stranger to handling growth.

“I’ve been in this seat before during massive growth patterns, and I understand the potential pitfalls,” Darby shared in a recent chat. While he doesn’t hold an official voting position, his insights will guide discussions among the city manager, division directors, and elected officials, aiming to strike a balance in sustainable growth.

Growing Population and Opportunities

Millington, though the smallest in population compared to other Shelby County municipalities, is currently the fastest-growing city in the county. Recent U.S. Census Bureau data reported an 8.3% population rise from 2020 to 2023, making it just one of three municipalities to experience growth, alongside Arlington and Lakeland. With a community of around 11,500 residents, this rapid change paints a promising picture for the little suburb.

The city manager, Frankie Dakin, who also recently joined Millington after working within the Shelby County administration, emphasized how crucial Darby’s expertise will be, calling this point in Millington’s journey a “critical juncture.” He noted, “Never before has Millington had someone with such depth of experience in this role.”

Infrastructure Ready for Expansion

What’s more exciting? Millington has the necessary infrastructure to accommodate even more growth, ready to double its size and welcome bigger employers looking to set up shop. One significant opportunity lies just 40 miles away, where the massive new Ford Motor Co. $5.6 billion BlueOval City plant is being constructed in Stanton, Tennessee, promising to employ nearly 6,000 workers. This is a game-changer that could have a ripple effect across the region, impacting Millington positively.

Development on the Horizon

Looking ahead, the prospects are promising. With over $1 billion in development projects either already underway or in the planning stages, according to the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce, the right kind of changes are brewing in the city. Dakin emphasized the community’s strength, describing it as “a really strong small city, a safe small city, and a working-class community that beautifully integrates diverse backgrounds.”

What’s Next for Millington?

As Millington positions itself to continue this growth trend, it remains focused on managing it smartly and sustainably. Everyone seems eager to see how this vibrant community will evolve in the coming years, keeping its unique charm and character intact while welcoming new opportunities. With voices like Darby’s in the mix, Millington is on the right track to navigate the exciting road ahead.

The future shines bright for Millington, and the enthusiasm is palpable among residents. This growing city represents a blend of safe neighborhoods and community spirit that many long for. Keep an eye out—there’s much more to come!