May 18, 2013
A Local 8 Weather Alert has been issued for today. Because of the threat of rain, thunder and even hail, outdoor activities may be disrupted or inconvenienced. What's going on? An upper-level low will be moving across East Tennessee today, creating a more unstable atmosphere.
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Community and business leaders from Sevier County met with Congressman Phil Roe to get an update from Washington.
Roe told the group that he's amazed by what he sees happening in Sevier County. He said businesses are creating new jobs and the county has done a good job of attracting new business to the area.
"I think this is a tourist based economy but the local chambers are doing a great job making this a year round destination," said Roe.
Roe says Sevier County is an example of how small businesses can drive the nations economy.
"Almost everyone here is a small business, just one right after another. So when they're doing well the country's doing well," said Roe. "Small businesses provide about two thirds of the jobs in this country. When they're growing America's growing and we've got to get people back to work."
Roe says there are traffic problems in Sevier County because of the growth in tourism. He says it will take work from the state and federal government to help make driving easier.
A legislative luncheon was held at the Edgewater Hotel on Monday, where Roe addressed Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Pigeon Forge Hospitality Association.
